Take with a grain of salt

Meaning

Don’t take what someone says too seriously – the the implication that it isn’t true.

Examples

She says that she’s Prince Charles’ niece. I’d take that with a grain of salt if I were you.

Where did it originate?

Britain, 17th century. From a Latin source, possibly Pliny.

Where is it used?

Worldwide.

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About the Author

Gary Martin

Writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.

Take with a grain of salt