Take with a Grain of Salt Meaning, Definition, Example, Synonym 

The meaning of Take with a Grain of Salt symbolises not fully believing something or being sceptical of the information that is presented. It implies that the information is sceptic and may not be entirely accurate or reliable.

The ancient Romans believed that consuming a small amount of salt with food could help improve digestion and overall health. 

This idea was later adopted by English naturalist Pliny the Elder, who wrote about it in his book Naturalis Historia. The phrase “cum grano salis” (with a grain of salt) suggests that readers should be cautious and not take everything at face value.

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Usage with Examples

The usage of the Take with a Grain of Salt is suitable to imply a state of suspicion. This can either be good or bad, given the outcome of that suspicion. 

Let’s take a closer look at these examples to master the usage of the idiom ‘Take with a Grain of Salt’:

• The tabloid headlines are often sensationalized, so I always take them with a grain of salt.
• My friend’s advice on investing seemed too good to be true, so I took it with a grain of salt.
• The politician’s promises during the election campaign should be taken with a grain of salt. 

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Take with a Grain of Salt Synonyms

You can also use these synonymous phrases instead of Take with a grain idiom having similar meanings:

• Be sceptical
• Doubtful
• Take it with a pinch of salt
• Questionable
• Not fully convinced 

Take with a Grain of Salt Meaning Quiz

Choose the correct option to complete the sentence: “ I read the online reviews of that  with a grain of, as.…”

• It sounded very suspicious to me.
• I would love to buy a highly-rated product.
• This was my first time viewing a good product.

Answer: It sounded very suspicious to me.

Also Read: Idioms for IELTS

This was all about the idiom Take with a Grain of Salt meaning and definition with examples. Hopefully, you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.