at face level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at face level" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is superficial or only considered at a basic or initial level without deeper analysis. Example: "When evaluating the proposal, we should first consider it at face level before diving into the details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

He held the baby out at face level.

The New Yorker

His fingers were usually outstretched, palms down, and his wrist cocked upward at face level.

The New York Times - Arts

This clearly isn't my fault.

The New Yorker

At face level, Walker has indeed pulled off an impressive feat by winning three elections in the past four years – his initial election as governor in 2010, a recall election in 2012 which he survived, and re-election in 2014.

The Guardian

One of the soldiers who replaced them hit a trip wire, setting off a mine that had been placed in a tree so that it would detonate at face level.

The New York Times - Magazine

At face level, this sounds bad, but the savings will speed the process by which it repays TARP funds in order to avoid problematic government oversight; plus, the extra capital cushion puts the firm in a better position to make acquisitions of flagging competitors, should difficulties in the banking sector drag on.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

UNM cops often believed at "face-level" the accused students' claims that victims consented and rarely challenged them, federal investigators found. .

Huffington Post

We practiced stopping short in our tracks, spinning around and in menacing voices with pumped fists at our face level, we shouted "Are you following me?" at the imaginary stranger following us.

Huffington Post

Steve has "ape hangers," which arch up over the bike so he has to keep his hands at about face level.

The New York Times

In patients and controls, the laser pain rating showed a slight and non-significant reduction in rTMS and sham sessions with respect to the basal session, and this reduction was more evident at the face level (Fig. 1; Table 2).

The Journal of Headache and Pain

In migraine group, the reduction of N2 P2 amplitude prevailed with respect to controls, in rTMS versus basal condition at the hand level, and in sham versus rTMS, rTMS versus basal and rTMS versus sham condition at the face level (Fig. 4).

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at face level", ensure the context clarifies whether you intend a literal reference to height or a figurative reference to superficial understanding. If superficial understanding is the context, consider alternatives like "on the surface" or "superficially" for improved clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "at face level" when describing emotional interactions, as this can imply a lack of empathy or depth. Reframe such instances with phrases that highlight genuine engagement, such as "eye to eye" or "heart to heart".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at face level" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or adjective, indicating the manner in which something is being considered or perceived. Ludwig's examples demonstrate both literal and figurative usages, the phrase adding context to the meaning of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Wiki

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at face level" is grammatically sound and functions as an adverbial phrase modifying how something is observed, communicating superficial considerations or first impressions. As Ludwig confirms, it's usable in diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science and Wiki, with neutral to informal tone. It's important to consider the potential for misinterpretation—especially between its literal and figurative senses—and alternatives like "on the surface" or "superficially" may enhance clarity in some cases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the surface

Implies a lack of depth in the initial assessment, similar to "at face level" but more concise.

superficially

Focuses on the external appearance or initial impression without deeper investigation.

ostensibly

Highlights a stated or apparent reason that may not be the true or complete reason.

at first glance

Emphasizes the immediate impression received upon initial observation.

on initial inspection

Suggests a preliminary review or examination, akin to assessing something "at face level".

from a basic perspective

Indicates an evaluation from a fundamental or uncomplicated viewpoint.

in a cursory manner

Implies a quick and not very detailed approach.

by outward appearance

Stresses judging solely by what is visible or apparent externally.

at a rudimentary level

Emphasizes simplicity and lack of complexity in the consideration.

in a simplified assessment

Focuses on the lack of detail and complexity in the evaluation process.

FAQs

How can I use "at face level" in a sentence?

You can use "at face level" to describe a situation where something is considered superficially or without deep analysis. For example, "At face level, the agreement seems beneficial, but further investigation is needed."

What does "at face level" mean?

The phrase "at face level" means considering something superficially or only from its apparent appearance, without delving into deeper complexities or hidden meanings. It can also refer to the literal height of something in relation to someone's face.

What are some alternatives to "at face level"?

You can use alternatives such as "on the surface", "superficially", or "at first glance" depending on the specific context in which you are using the phrase.

When is it appropriate to use "at face level" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "at face level" when you want to indicate that you are considering something from a basic, initial, or superficial perspective. This can be useful when setting up a contrast, before explaining underlying complexities or issues.