With a grain/pinch of salt (to take) - Not to be believed entirely; to be viewed with skepticism. This term comes from the Latin cum grano salis, which appeared in Pliny’s account of Pompey’s discovery of an antidote against poison that was to be taken with a grain of salt added (Naturalis Historia, ca. A.D. 77). The term was quickly adopted by English writers, among them John Trapp, whose Commentary on Revelations (1647) stated, “This is to be taken with a grain of salt.”
Synonyms:
- With a hint of doubt
- Take it lightly
- With reservations
- With caution
Antonyms:
- Take at face value
- Believe wholeheartedly
- Unquestioningly
- As gospel truth
Humor-filled Quotes:
- “Believe only half of what you see and nothing that you hear – unless it’s with a grain of salt!”
- “Just because it’s on the Internet doesn’t mean it’s true. Always take it with a pinch of digital salt."
Related Expressions:
- The Doubting Thomas: Refers to the Apostle Thomas who doubted the resurrection of Christ. Similar term for someone who is skeptical.
- To Call Horsesh*t: More colloquial; calling out something you find incredible or dubious.
- Trust but verify: Originating from a Russian proverb and popularized by Ronald Reagan, meaning to trust but still take steps to verify the truth.
Proverbs:
- “One should not believe everything one hears.” – Italian Proverb
- “Trust him not with your secrets, who, when left alone in your room, turns over your papers.” – Johann Kaspar Lavater
- “Hasty climbers have sudden falls.” – Italian Proverb
Literature Recommendations:
- “Arsene Lupin: Gentleman Thief” by Maurice Leblanc – For a fun read about guile and skepticism.
- “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett – A detective novel where skepticism is key.
- “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón – A tale of intrigue and mystery that will have you questioning everything.
Music:
- “Suspicious Minds” by Elvis Presley – Cautionary tale of mistrust in romance.
- “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye – A soulful skepticism.
Movies:
- “The Usual Suspects” – A mind-bending film where taking things at face value is downright unwise.
- “Doubt” – A thought-provoking film where skepticism drives the plot forward.
Inspirational Thought:
💭 “Question everything, but be wise in discernment. Skepticism is a scalpel for truth, not a hammer for destruction." 💡
🔚 Remember, a skeptic’s armor is woven not just from doubt but also from the pursuit of truth. Until next foray into the world of words, stay curious and discerning!
— Written by: Saline Schnobstein (Published on 2023-10-15) —
