What Does “Rule of Thumb” Mean?

A very common expression. By Janine Giorgenti Of all the several expressions we use, knowingly or unknowingly, we don’t always know where they come from. Some expressions (or metaphors) carry historical connotations (“read the riot act”),

while others may have been passed down from simple day to day happenings (“oops doesn’t fix the broken lamp”).

One commonly used expression, “rule of thumbs”, actually originates from the world of fashion!

“Rule of Thumb”, defined as “a broadly accurate guide or principle, based on experience or practice rather than theory”; entails when a tailor measures for the correct sleeve length. A tailor will measure from the hem of the sleeve to the tip of the thumb; hence “rule of thumb”.

Use that at your next networking party or client-facing interaction!

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About the Author

Janine Giorgenti For over 25 years, Janine Giorgenti, renowned fashion designer and image consultant – has provided a long line of satisfied clients with unparalleled service and first class made-to-measure custom suits. Featured in the Wall Street Journal, Vogue Magazine, The New York Times, CNN, Fox News, CBS, and other top media outlets – Janine has established a clientele of some of New York’s most successful and discerning professionals – including such New York dignitaries as former New York Islanders legend Bobby Nystrom and chief economist Dr. Irwin Kellner.