at face value

USAGE SUMMARY

"at face value" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe when you accept something without question or critical evaluation. For example, "He took her statement at face value, but later found out it was false."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You'll get burnt if you take everything at face value.

Vice

"We took it all at face value".

The New York Times

At face value, their replies were curious.

The Economist

Don't take things at face value".

The New York Times - Arts

He may be acting at face value.

The New York Times

Nothing should be taken at face value".

Independent

"Let's judge her at face value".

The New York Times

Take it at face value.

The New York Times - Sports

At face value, extraordinary statistics.

The Guardian - Sport

Can this be taken at face value?

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I'll take that at face value.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at face value" when you want to indicate that you are accepting something as it appears, without further investigation. Be aware that this can sometimes imply a lack of critical thinking or skepticism.

Common error

Avoid using "at face value" when you actually want to express skepticism or the need for deeper analysis. The phrase suggests acceptance, not questioning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at face value" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that something is being accepted without further scrutiny. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts to express this initial acceptance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at face value" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate acceptance of something as it appears initially, without deeper analysis. As Ludwig AI shows, its use is widespread across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While convenient, it's important to be mindful of its potential implication of lacking critical thought. Consider alternatives like "on the surface" or "seemingly" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Avoiding the trap of naivete and using the phrase judiciously will enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the surface

This focuses on the immediate appearance, lacking the implication of acceptance.

seemingly

Indicates something appears a certain way, potentially deceptively.

ostensibly

Implies a contrast between appearance and reality.

as it seems

Focuses on initial perception, often suggesting doubt.

on initial inspection

Emphasizes a brief, preliminary assessment.

prima facie

A legal term indicating something is accepted until proven otherwise, more formal.

from all appearances

Focuses on outward signs and indications.

to all outward signs

Similar to "from all appearances", but more emphatic.

without questioning

Highlights the lack of scrutiny, less idiomatic.

by all accounts

Based on what others report, not direct observation.

FAQs

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

You can use "at face value" to indicate that something is being accepted as it appears, without further analysis. For example, "The contract seemed fair "at face value", but upon closer inspection, it contained several hidden clauses."

What does it mean to take something "at face value"?

Taking something "at face value" means accepting it as it appears without questioning its truthfulness or underlying meaning. It implies a lack of scrutiny or critical thinking.

When is it appropriate to take something "at face value"?

It's appropriate to take something "at face value" when the risk of being wrong is low, or when a quick assessment is sufficient. However, in situations with high stakes or potential for deception, deeper investigation is warranted.

What are some alternatives to saying "at face value"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "on the surface", "ostensibly", or "seemingly". These phrases convey a similar idea of accepting something as it appears, but with slightly different nuances.