Who gave the thumb rule?
2 Answers
The term "thumb rule" refers to a principle derived from practical experience rather than a theory or scientific method. It is often used in situations where a quick approximation or a rough estimate is needed. The origins of specific "thumb rules" are usually unclear because they have been passed down through generations, often evolving within different industries and trades over time.
### Origin of the Term
The phrase "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated in England around the 17th century, where it referred to using one's thumb as an approximate measuring tool. The thumb was often used by craftsmen, such as carpenters or tailors, to measure small distances, or by brewers to test the temperature of brewing liquid.
There is no single person or group of people who can be credited with "giving" thumb rules. Instead, they evolved organically over centuries as people needed practical, fast ways to make judgments or approximations without requiring precise measurements or calculations.
### Common Thumb Rules in Different Fields
- **Engineering:** "For every 1% increase in voltage, there is a 2% increase in power."
- **Construction:** "The length of a wall stud should be about 16 inches apart."
- **Finance:** "Save at least 10% of your income for retirement."
- **Cooking:** "For every cup of rice, use two cups of water."
In short, thumb rules are not the work of any single individual, but a collection of practical wisdom refined through experience and used for quick decision-making.
### Origin of the Term
The phrase "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated in England around the 17th century, where it referred to using one's thumb as an approximate measuring tool. The thumb was often used by craftsmen, such as carpenters or tailors, to measure small distances, or by brewers to test the temperature of brewing liquid.
There is no single person or group of people who can be credited with "giving" thumb rules. Instead, they evolved organically over centuries as people needed practical, fast ways to make judgments or approximations without requiring precise measurements or calculations.
### Common Thumb Rules in Different Fields
- **Engineering:** "For every 1% increase in voltage, there is a 2% increase in power."
- **Construction:** "The length of a wall stud should be about 16 inches apart."
- **Finance:** "Save at least 10% of your income for retirement."
- **Cooking:** "For every cup of rice, use two cups of water."
In short, thumb rules are not the work of any single individual, but a collection of practical wisdom refined through experience and used for quick decision-making.
The term "thumb rule" or "rule of thumb" refers to a general principle or guideline that is based on practical experience rather than a specific formula or theory. The origin of this term is somewhat uncertain, but it is commonly believed to have historical roots in various trades and crafts where practical, hands-on experience provided guidance.
One theory is that the term "rule of thumb" originated from the practice of using one's thumb as a rough measurement tool. For example, in carpentry or tailoring, a thumb might have been used to estimate measurements quickly.
Another, more controversial theory suggests that the term could have originated from historical practices where physical punishments, such as beating with a stick or rod, were administered. This theory, however, is less substantiated and considered less likely by many historians.
Overall, "rule of thumb" is widely used in various fields to refer to practical, experience-based guidelines rather than precise rules.
One theory is that the term "rule of thumb" originated from the practice of using one's thumb as a rough measurement tool. For example, in carpentry or tailoring, a thumb might have been used to estimate measurements quickly.
Another, more controversial theory suggests that the term could have originated from historical practices where physical punishments, such as beating with a stick or rod, were administered. This theory, however, is less substantiated and considered less likely by many historians.
Overall, "rule of thumb" is widely used in various fields to refer to practical, experience-based guidelines rather than precise rules.