at face value

idiom

1
: for the price that is printed on something
We bought the tickets at face value.
2
: as true or genuine without being questioned or doubted
After all his lying, nothing he says now should be taken/accepted at face value.

Examples of at face value in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With private equity and skyrocketing valuations becoming a bigger part of the women’s game, not every gesture can be taken at face value. Emily Olsen, New York Times, 24 Jan. 2026 Trump supporters often make the case that his stances should not be taken at face value and are mere bluffs designed for negotiation. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2026 The lawsuit says the fire department took the statements of the battalion chief and his two witnesses at face value. Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 21 Jan. 2026 Indiana and Miami both get an allotment of tickets sold by the universities at face value. David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 12 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for at face value

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Cite this Entry

“At face value.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20face%20value. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.

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