Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.
10th May 2024

Take it with a pinch of salt

We use this expression to say that somebody should not completely believe something they have heard or read.
Usage
Written: 
Yes
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
My students told me today that I'm the best teacher they've ever had.
Oh I'd take that with a pinch of salt. They say that to everybody.
Example 2
The instructions say that the batteries will last for five years.
I'd take that with a pinch of salt. If you use it a lot, it'll be shorter.
Okay. I'll bear it in mind.

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