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.
Thom Bettridge, an editor and writer in New York, has a rule of thumb: he only buys gifts that are smaller than a breadbox, to minimize the space that they take up in hosts’ homes.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 14, 2026
"Always ask, would you put the same thing in an email?" he says, as a rule of thumb.
From BBC ● Aug. 17, 2026
If you feel compelled to comment on a famous woman’s body, a good rule of thumb to remember is “don’t.”
From Slate ● Aug. 6, 2026
The production’s rule of thumb became trying to execute scenes practically, in front of a lens, wherever possible.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026
“The rule of thumb is that you buy at ten and sell at twenty.”
From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis
