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

The IMF warns that current market resilience to the Middle East conflict should not be taken at face value, as a longer war could trigger adverse reactions.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

Haney’s bill would ban reselling tickets at more than 10% above face value in California.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Taken at face value, the whole incident appears to be another example of social media's apparently massive ability to influence our young people.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

Seiden said he has brokered a handful of tariff claims with a total face value of $20 million for companies selling items including Christmas decorations, pharmaceuticals and imported foods.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

The idea appealed especially to German institutional investors, who either failed to read the fine print or took the ratings at face value.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis