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Region: General | Usage example: Take that rumor with a grain of salt.

Take it with a grain of salt

Meaning

Consider something with skepticism.

Usage

Used to caution about trusting claims.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Ancient remedy added salt to make medicine tolerable.

Cited by Pliny the Elder.

Related Idioms

Double take

An exaggerated second look because something surprised you.

Throw the baby out with the bathwater

Discard something valuable while eliminating the unwanted.

Get two birds with one stone

Achieve two things with one effort.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.