Take something with a pinch of salt

phrase

To understand that something may not be completely accurate or reliable.

He's known for exaggerating, so I take his stories with a pinch of salt.
Visual representation of "take something with a pinch of salt" - To understand that something may not be completely accurate or reliable.

Often appears as...

  • take his words with a pinch of salt
  • take her advice with a pinch of salt

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

To understand that something may not be completely accurate or reliable.

He's known for exaggerating, so I take his stories with a pinch of salt.
Visual representation of "take something with a pinch of salt" - To understand that something may not be completely accurate or reliable.

Often appears as...

  • take his words with a pinch of salt
  • take her advice with a pinch of salt

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "take something with a pinch of salt"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Credibility Issue

Use the phrase when you doubt the truthfulness or accuracy of what someone says.

Illustration for Credibility Issue
The politician made some bold claims, but I took them with a pinch of salt.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

Remember, 'with a pinch of salt' is an idiom; it's not about actual salt.

Illustration for Not Literal
If he says he's an expert, take it with a pinch of salt.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subtle Skepticism

The phrase expresses a light, not aggressive, skepticism towards information.

Illustration for Subtle Skepticism
She claims to have seen a celebrity, so I'm taking that with a pinch of salt.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Credibility Issue

Use the phrase when you doubt the truthfulness or accuracy of what someone says.

Illustration for Credibility Issue
The politician made some bold claims, but I took them with a pinch of salt.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

Remember, 'with a pinch of salt' is an idiom; it's not about actual salt.

Illustration for Not Literal
If he says he's an expert, take it with a pinch of salt.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subtle Skepticism

The phrase expresses a light, not aggressive, skepticism towards information.

Illustration for Subtle Skepticism
She claims to have seen a celebrity, so I'm taking that with a pinch of salt.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Credibility Issue

Use the phrase when you doubt the truthfulness or accuracy of what someone says.

Illustration for Credibility Issue
The politician made some bold claims, but I took them with a pinch of salt.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

Remember, 'with a pinch of salt' is an idiom; it's not about actual salt.

Illustration for Not Literal
If he says he's an expert, take it with a pinch of salt.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subtle Skepticism

The phrase expresses a light, not aggressive, skepticism towards information.

Illustration for Subtle Skepticism
She claims to have seen a celebrity, so I'm taking that with a pinch of salt.
Visual representation of the word "Take something with a pinch of salt"

Never forget "Take something with a pinch of salt"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top