face value

American  

[feys val-yoo, feys val-yoo] / ˈfeɪs ˌvæl yu, ˈfeɪs ˈvæl yu /

noun

1. the value printed on the face of a stock, bond, or other financial instrument or document.

2. apparent value.

   Do not accept promises at face value.

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face value British  

noun

1. the value written or stamped on the face of a commercial paper or coin

2. apparent worth or value, as opposed to real worth

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face value Idioms  

1. see at face value.

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Etymology

Origin of face value

First recorded in 1875–80

Compare meaning

How does face-value compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• par value vs. face value

Example Sentences

Which, at face value, may not sound like the most romantic thing anyone has ever said, but trust me when I swear to you that it was.

From Literature

At face value, HSAs are great, particularly if you are someone with a higher income.

From MarketWatch

“Investors no longer seem to take his statements at face value — if anything, they’re beginning to trade against them, waiting for tangible proof before reacting.”

From MarketWatch

He relies on negotiating partners’ taking his behavior at face value, losing their nerve and getting emotional.

From The Wall Street Journal

The required prepaid international calling cards are expensive and often fail to provide their face value in minutes.

From Barron's