Colors & Writing 4

Colors & Writing 3

Colors & Writing 2

Colors & Writing 1

Salt

The origin of the phrase to take something with a grain of salt, meaning to view information with skepticism or not take it too literally, traces back to ancient Rome.

AI says that the earliest known reference comes from Pliny the Elder (1st century AD) in his Naturalis Historia. He described an antidote for poison that included a grain of salt (cum grano salis), suggesting that salt might help counteract the effects. Over time, the phrase evolved to imply that adding a grain of salt makes something more palatable — both literally and metaphorically.

By the 17th and 18th centuries, English speakers began using the expression figuratively to mean approaching statements or claims with caution. The modern usage suggests that one should be skeptical and not take everything at face value.

Charles Dickens

"It was one of those chilly and dismal days that often come in the middle of winter, when the rain falls in a dull, steady patter, and the wind howls drearily through the leafless trees."
Charles Dickens

Happy Valentine's Day!