What does the phrase "rule of thumb" mean?

Answer 1

First, the supposed connection with wife-beating is a modern urban legend.

The term refers to making a quick, approximate judgment. Its early uses seem connected with the practice of carpenters, also tailors and artists.

The notion of using the thumb to measure parallels many other traditional uses of body parts to make measurements --some of which are even ensconced as measuring terms in modern English, e.g., foot, hand. In fact, the inch measure itself originates from the use of part of the thumb --between the thumb's tip and its first joint. (Other measures based on body parts include cubits and palms).

The suggestion that the expression "rule of thumb" came from a rule about the limits of physically chastizing one's wife are very recent and seem based largely on misunderstandings. (Even if anyone ever actually applied the expression that way, this is NOT its origin. Its use for a rough & ready measurement goes back much further.)

Answer 2

The artist theory is wrong.



"Rule of thumb" Came from when men were allowed to beat their wives.


The "Rule of Thumb" was an actual law, where the husband could beat his wife with nothing larger than the width of his thumb.

Answer 3

Both huggy_bunny and phillip are correct. It used to be used to dictate the type of object one could use to beat his wife. Today, it is a common phrase meaning the way things are usually done.

Answer 4

I think it refers to an artist who uses their thumb for size and perspective comparison of their subject when translating it to the canvas or paper.

Answer 5

It means that it`s the normal,or accepted way.

Answer 6

an educated guess

Answer 7

it means your mom ,asswipe, haha i said it too