face value

American  

[fays val-yoo, fays val-yoo] / ˈfeɪs ˌvæl ju, ˈfeɪs ˈvæl ju /

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

See Examples For:

face value

In the past, large amounts of evidence in a criminal investigation could be taken mostly at face value, especially images and videos.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2026

Case in point: Don’t take what consumers say at face value.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 1, 2026

Scotland has a new boom industry, at least if planning applications are taken at face value.

From BBC ● Sep. 15, 2026

If it is trading at 1% above or below its face value, we say it is trading at 101 or 99, respectively.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 10, 2026

Or is she content to take me at face value, a cardboard cutout queen?

From "The Queen of Water" by Laura Resau