DAILY ENGLISH VOCABULARY
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WORKPLACE · EVERYDAY
TODAY YOU'LL MASTER
Rule of thumb
 
A quick, practical shortcut based on experience.
01 What it really means

“Rule of thumb” means “a practical guideline that’s usually right.” It’s not an exact rule — it’s a shortcut based on experience. It helps people decide quickly without complicated calculations.

In one line: A practical guideline that's usually right.
02 See it in action
THEMHow much food should I make for eight people?
YOURule of thumb: plan for ten.
03 Say it like a native
✕ INSTEAD OF
A general practical guideline based on experience
 
✓ TRY
As a rule of thumb…
Good rule of thumb.
Generally speaking…
CULTURE INSIGHT
Americans share rules of thumb constantly — practical shortcuts passed between people. They’re valued because they’re fast and usually right. Offering one is a friendly way to share experience.
YOUR CHALLENGE TODAY
Today, share a rule of thumb you’ve learned. Notice how useful practical shortcuts are to others.
★ PREMIUM ★
NATIVE ENGLISH INSIDER
Now you know what it means. Time to hear how natives really say it.
 
Today's phrase: Rule of thumb
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See you tomorrow,
Teacher Tiffani
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