rule of thumb

noun

1. a general or approximate principle, procedure, or rule based on experience or practice, as opposed to a specific, scientific calculation or estimate.
2. a rough, practical method of procedure.

rule of thumb

noun

1. 1. a rough and practical approach, based on experience, rather than a scientific or precise one based on theory
   2. ( as modifier )

      a rule-of-thumb decision

rule of thumb

1. A practical principle that comes from the wisdom of experience and is usually but not always valid: “When playing baseball, a good rule of thumb is to put your best hitter fourth in the batting order.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of rule of thumb¹

First recorded in 1685–95

Idioms and Phrases

A rough and useful principle or method, based on experience rather than precisely accurate measures. For example, His work with the youth group is largely by rule of thumb . This expression alludes to making rough estimates of measurements by using one's thumb. [Second half of 1600s]

Example Sentences

As a rule of thumb, smart meters in the northern region designed to connect to the radio signal have two small indicator lights on the communications hub, fitted to the top of the smart meter.

From BBC

Beth Saltz, a pediatric dietitian in Woodland Hills, said a general rule of thumb is to make sure that all of the ingredients listed could be sold in the grocery store.

From Los Angeles Times

In terms of when to start counting the three-month period, Hudson said a good rule of thumb would be from when your symptoms began or, if asymptomatic, when you were diagnosed.

From Los Angeles Times

As a general rule of thumb, the FDA handles most food products that undergo processing.

From Salon

It’s a good rule of thumb never to click on a link or call a phone number in an unsolicited text or email.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• criterion