rule of thumb

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A common rule of thumb says to buy builders at one-times book value and sell at two-times.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

My rule of thumb is to add one cup of cottage cheese for every cup of sauce.

From Salon • May 24, 2026

There’s no real rule of thumb for this, other than that it’s always best to keep your immediate cash needs liquid in a high-yield savings account or money-market account.

From MarketWatch • May 11, 2026

As a rule of thumb, parents should only invest for college after getting their retirement savings on track.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

“Maybe the flagpole could be a plan B when there isn’t the threat of storms, because avoiding tall metal poles is actually a good rule of thumb when lightning may be in the picture.”

From "A Bird Will Soar" by Alison Green Myers