face value

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "face value" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase indicates the literal meaning or outward appearance of something without considering any underlying implications. For example: "Let's look at the issue at face value and see what we can work out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Talk about face value.

The New York Times - Style

"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

The play was "Face Value".

The New York Times

Not at, erm, face value.

The Guardian

"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

Face value is full value.

The New York Times - Arts

One way to start is face value.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "face value", ensure the context clarifies whether you're referring to a literal amount (like on a bond) or a superficial interpretation of something.

Common error

Avoid automatically trusting something taken at "face value". Always consider underlying factors or hidden meanings to avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "face value" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used adjectivally to modify another noun. Ludwig confirms this through numerous examples where it describes a literal amount or a superficial interpretation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "face value" is a versatile noun phrase with two primary meanings: the nominal value of something, and the acceptance of something at its apparent worth. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage is grammatically sound and frequent across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and science. While often used neutrally, it's crucial to remember that taking something at "face value" might not always reveal the complete picture, requiring further scrutiny in many situations. Related phrases include "nominal value" and "stated value". Therefore, be mindful of the context when employing "face value" to ensure clear and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nominal value

Replaces "face value" when referring to the stated worth, especially in financial contexts.

literal interpretation

Highlights a direct and uncomplicated understanding, similar to accepting something at "face value".

stated value

Focuses on the explicitly declared value, similar to "face value".

ostensible worth

Indicates the publicly presented or claimed worth, close to "face value".

apparent value

Highlights the outwardly visible or immediately obvious value, akin to "face value".

outward appearance

Focuses on how something seems at first glance, mirroring the concept of "face value".

superficial assessment

Emphasizes the lack of deeper analysis, focusing only on the surface-level interpretation.

surface level

Highlights that only the exterior is considered, not digging for more hidden truth and details.

initial impression

Stresses the first perception or understanding, resembling taking something at "face value".

at first blush

Indicates an initial assessment or reaction, often implying that further scrutiny may be needed.

FAQs

How do I use "face value" in a sentence?

You can use "face value" to describe accepting something as it appears, or to refer to the nominal price or worth of an item. For example: "Let's take his statement at "face value" for now" or "The "face value" of the bond is $1,000".

What's the difference between "face value" and "intrinsic value"?

"Face value" is the stated or apparent value, while "intrinsic value" is the actual worth, considering underlying factors. Something taken at "face value" might not reflect its true "intrinsic value".

When is it appropriate to not take something at "face value"?

It's wise to question "face value" when dealing with complex situations, potential scams, or when you suspect hidden motives. Further investigation is warranted in such cases.

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

Depending on the context, you could say "accept it as it seems", "take it literally", or "accept the "stated value"" instead of "take it at "face value"".