take with a grain of salt
Meaning: To be skeptical about something; not to take it entirely at face value.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Example: “He claims he once met the president, but take that with a grain of salt.”
Category: Food & Drink
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 idioms — Food & Drink
- I could eat a horse — I am extremely hungry.
- there's many a slip 'twixt the cup and the lip — Many things can go wrong before a plan succeeds.
- born with a silver spoon in one's mouth — Born into a wealthy, privileged family.
- butter wouldn't melt in someone's mouth — Someone looks innocent or proper, but probably is not.
- a pie-crust promise — A promise that is easily broken.
- the honeymoon period — The early, happy stage of a new relationship or arrangement, before problems appear.
More English idioms
- Caesar's wife must be above suspicion — People in prominent positions must avoid even the appearance of wrongdoing.
- 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.