Homonym: pinch of salt (Skepticism)
The phrase "pinch of salt" refers to a small amount of salt, typically used in cooking to enhance flavor. It is often used to describe the act of adding just a little seasoning to a dish, allowing for a balanced taste without overwhelming the other ingredients.
In a figurative sense, "taking something with a pinch of salt" means to view information or claims with skepticism or caution. This expression suggests that one should not take everything at face value and should consider the possibility of exaggeration or misinformation, much like how a small amount of salt can alter the perception of a dish.