IdiomFood & Drink
English
Englishtake with a grain of salt
Meaning: To be skeptical about something; not to take it entirely at face value.
Example: “He claims he once met the president, but take that with a grain of salt.”
Origin: Often traced to Pliny the Elder's recipe for an antidote to poison, taken "with a grain of salt" (addito salis grano), though Pliny meant it literally. The figurative English use dates from the 17th century. The British say "with a pinch of salt."
Equivalents in other languages
Italian: con beneficio d'inventario Literally: With benefit of inventory
French: Être sujet à caution Literally: To be subject to surety
More English idioms
- the game is not worth the candle The effort or cost is greater than the reward.
- be a third wheel To be an unwanted extra person with a couple.
- like a bat out of hell Extremely fast.
- have a seat at the table To be included in the discussions where decisions are made.
- find Mr. Right To find the ideal romantic partner.
- a snake-oil salesman A swindler who sells fake remedies or worthless solutions.
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