1
Accept apparent meaning
Treat a statement as it initially presents itself.
Example
Taken at face value, the inscription appears to name a king.
at face value
/ət ˌfeɪs ˈvæljuː/ · at FAYS VAL-yoointerpretation phrase
According only to the apparent or literal meaning, without deeper examination.
Use at face value to signal this exact relationship between ideas: according only to the apparent or literal meaning, without deeper examination.
What at face value Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Suspend suspicion
Accept a claim without checking motives or evidence.
Example
The auditor refused to take the figures at face value.
3
Contrast surface and depth
Distinguish initial appearance from fuller interpretation.
Example
At face value the stories conflict, but their timelines can be reconciled.
Use at face value Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Taken at face value, the inscription appears to name a king.
The auditor refused to take the figures at face value.
At face value the stories conflict, but their timelines can be reconciled.
Precision Matters
At face value overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
at face value
vs.Signals according only to the apparent or literal meaning, without deeper examination.
superficial
Means concerned only with the surface or obvious features; shallow and lacking depth.
at face value
vs.Signals according only to the apparent or literal meaning, without deeper examination.
scrutinize
Means to examine something very closely and critically.
at face value
vs.Signals according only to the apparent or literal meaning, without deeper examination.
explicit
Means stated directly and with complete clarity.
at face value
vs.Signals according only to the apparent or literal meaning, without deeper examination.
at first
Means initially; during the earliest stage before a later change.
Test at face value in Context
The first reading relies only on the apparent wording.
1
Read ___, the advertisement promises a free service, but the conditions reveal several mandatory fees.