a rule of thumb

Neutral B2 Eiken Pre-1 Upper-intermediate

a rule of thumb

Meaning

A practical, approximate rule based on experience.

A rule of thumb originated in 17th century England at a time when quantities were measured by comparison to the width or length of a thumb.

Literal Translation

親指の規則

Examples

  • As a rule of thumb, drink water before every meal. 経験則として、食事のたびに水を飲むといい。
  • A good rule of thumb is to save ten percent. おおよその目安として、収入の一割を貯金するといい。