rule of thumb

Definition of Rule Of Thumb in English :

1. guideline, guidepost, rule of thumb

a rule or principle that provides guidance to appropriate behavior

WordNet Lexical Database for English. Princeton University. 2010.

Rule Of Thumb

noun

a.

a rough and practical approach, based on experience, rather than a scientific or precise one based on theory

b.

(as modifier)

a rule-of-thumb decision

modifier

made by rule of thumb

an informal, rule-of-thumb approach

1.

a rule based on experience or practice rather than on scientific knowledge

2.

any method of estimating that is practical though not precise

n. pl. rules of thumb

A useful principle having wide application but not intended to be strictly accurate or reliable in every situation.