Definition

Adverb - From appearances alone; based on an initial impression without deeper investigation: Used to state how a situation seems or appears to be true before it has been examined more carefully or before more information is known.

Usage

This adverb is used to introduce a statement that describes the obvious or superficial appearance of something, often implying that this appearance may be misleading or incomplete upon closer examination. It typically comes at the beginning of a sentence or clause.

Examples

• On the face of it, the proposal seems reasonable and cost-effective.
• On the face of it, the two reports contradict each other.

Advanced Usage

• Contrasting Initial and Actual Judgments: The phrase is frequently used to set up a contrast, followed by a clause (often introduced by "but," "however," or "although") that introduces complicating factors or a different reality.
  • On the face of it, the deal was excellent, but the lawyer advised looking at the fine print.
  • The evidence is, on the face of it, compelling. However, several key witnesses have since recanted their statements.

Variants and Related Words

• Apparently (adv): As far as one can see or know; seemingly.
• Ostensibly (adv): As appears or is stated to be true, though not necessarily so.
• Seemingly (adv): According to the facts as one knows them; as far as one can tell.
• Superficially (adv): As regards the surface or appearance only; not deeply or thoroughly.

Synonyms

• Apparently
• Ostensibly
• Seemingly
• At first glance
• To all appearances

Related Idioms

• At face value: Accepting something as it appears, without questioning its truth or substance.
  • You can't take his promises at face value; he rarely follows through. (Note: "At face value" is a related idiom often used in similar contexts to mean accepting the superficial appearance.)

Adverb

1. from appearances alone
   • irrigation often produces bumper crops from apparently desert land
   • the child is seemingly healthy but the doctor is concerned
   • had been ostensibly frank as to his purpose while really concealing it-Thomas Hardy
   • on the face of it the problem seems minor