Take it with a pinch of salt

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.