with a grain of salt

USAGE SUMMARY

"with a grain of salt" is correct and usable in written English.
This is an idiom meaning to take something with caution, rather than accepting it as absolute truth. For example, "Some people say the exam will be difficult, but I'll take that with a grain of salt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This should be taken with a grain of salt.

The New York Times - Sports

You take everything he says with a grain of salt.

The New York Times - Sports

You take things with a grain of salt".

The New York Times - Arts

I took it with a grain of salt.

The New York Times - Magazine

Harvey Mitchell, Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia With a grain of salt.

The Guardian

We always look at those with a grain of salt.

The New York Times - Sports

Take it all with a grain of salt".

The Guardian

"But we take all that with a grain of salt.

The New York Times

Take criticism and praise with a grain of salt.

The New York Times

It has to be taken with a grain of salt".

The New York Times - Tech

Take this all with a grain of salt, of course.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with a grain of salt" when you want to suggest that someone should not completely believe something because it might not be accurate or true. It’s best used when the information is not necessarily false, but requires critical evaluation.

Common error

Avoid using "with a grain of salt" when you believe the information is entirely false or intentionally misleading. In such cases, stronger terms like "false", "misleading", or "untrue" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with a grain of salt" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the manner in which information or claims should be received or interpreted. It's used to temper enthusiasm or acceptance, suggesting a need for critical evaluation, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "with a grain of salt" is a common idiom used to advise caution or skepticism when interpreting information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media, business, and even scientific contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's best used when information isn't necessarily false but requires critical evaluation. Remember to consider the context and level of skepticism you wish to convey, and be cautious of misinterpreting the information that needs stronger, more direct language instead of this subtle idiom.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Be skeptical

This alternative conveys a general attitude of doubt and questioning.

View with skepticism

This alternative emphasizes the act of viewing or considering something skeptically.

Doubt its veracity

Focuses specifically on doubting the truthfulness or accuracy of something.

Consider with caution

This suggests careful and prudent consideration, implying potential risks or uncertainties.

Question its validity

Directly challenges the truth or accuracy of something.

Take it skeptically

This alternative suggests a skeptical approach or mindset when considering something.

Remain unconvinced

Expresses a state of not being persuaded or convinced.

Treat with reservation

Indicates holding back complete acceptance or agreement.

Be wary of

Implies suspicion and distrust towards something.

Don't believe everything you hear

A more direct and general warning against gullibility.

FAQs

How can I use "with a grain of salt" in a sentence?

You can use "with a grain of salt" to advise caution when interpreting information. For example: "The company's projections should be taken "with a grain of salt", as they've been overly optimistic in the past."

What is a similar phrase to "with a grain of salt"?

Alternatives to "with a grain of salt" include "take it skeptically", "view with skepticism", or "consider with caution". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "with a grain of salt" in formal writing?

While "with a grain of salt" is widely understood, it is idiomatic and might be perceived as slightly informal. In very formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "consider with caution" or "view with skepticism" to maintain a professional tone.

What does it mean to take something "with a grain of salt"?

Taking something "with a grain of salt" means not accepting it at face value, but considering it with skepticism and reservation. It implies that the information may not be entirely accurate or reliable and should be evaluated critically.