The phrase "general rule" refers to a commonly accepted guideline or principle that is true in most situations. It is a basic idea that can be applied in different cases. Full definition
Take these tips as general rules of thumb, not gospel. (creditdonkey.com)
In the end, of course, I'm interested in what general rule of thumb there might be — what sort of employer matches enable such opportunities? (allfinancialmatters.com)
A more general rule for many has been for a 60 - 40 split between stocks and fixed income as a solid retirement savings strategy. (moneysense.ca)