Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

face value

Word Rarity Uncommon

Frequency: 4.97 in modern English

Syllables: face -val-ue
IPA

17

Scrabble Score

9

Letters

3

Syllables

7

Unique Chars

Meaning

noun

The amount or value listed on a bill, card, note, stamp, etc.; the stated value or amount.

Countable; Uncountable

noun

No more or less than what is stated; a literal or direct meaning or interpretation.

Countable; Uncountable

Example Sentences

"Please take this comment at face value and don't try to read anything into it."
"Few museums have such a coherent collection that covers so many different areas of interest as the London Transport Museum. At face value, it is a collection of urban transport in London. In reality, it is so much more."

Etymology

The term exists because a contrast between nominal value and market value is sometimes materially relevant for currencies.

Usage

Inflected Forms

face values (plural)

Phrases

accept at face value on the face of it take at face value grain of salt pinch of salt read between the lines

Frequently Paired Words

denomination grain of salt pinch of salt read between the lines

Synonyms

par value nominal value

Questions

What does face value mean?: The amount or value listed on a bill, card, note, stamp, etc.; the stated value or amount.
Where does face value come from?: The term exists because a contrast between nominal value and market value is sometimes materially relevant for currencies.

How to pronounce face value

Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “face value”.
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