ENGLISH
REFERENCE

rule of thumb

idiom

A general guideline, rather than a strict rule; an approximate measure or means of reckoning based on experience or common knowledge.


Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    as a rule

    In general; most often.

  2. 02

    bright-line rule

    A clear-cut rule, so that it is easy to make a decision.

  3. 03

    brown thumb

    A lack of skill at growing plants; a poor gardening skill.

  4. 04

    butcher's thumb

    A dishonest practice in which a butcher uses their thumb to add extra weight to a scale when weighing meat.

  5. 05

    fash one's thumb

    To bother oneself; to worry about something.

  6. 06

    golden rule

    A fundamental rule or principle.

  7. 07

    green thumb

    A natural skill for gardening.

  8. 08

    ground rule

    The basic rules or standards; basic principles.

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