face value

Definitions

1. The amount or value listed on a bill, card, note, stamp, etc.; the stated value or amount.
   countable, uncountable
2. No more or less than what is stated; a literal or direct meaning or interpretation.
   countable, idiomatic, uncountable

Equivalents

Examples

“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.”

CEFR level