IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary
take at face value
idiomteɪk ət ˌfeɪs ˈvæljuːBand 8
Last updated 2 September 2026
In short
“take at face value” is a Band 8 idiom that means to accept something as it appears, without questioning it. Below you'll find its pronunciation, natural example sentences, synonyms and antonyms, and the collocations that help you use it accurately in the IELTS Speaking test.
Meaning
To accept something as it appears, without questioning it.
Example sentences
- “Don't take everything you read at face value.”
- “She took his promise at face value.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
accept as truetake literally
Antonyms
questionbe sceptical of
Collocations & common phrases
Collocations
take at face valueaccept at face value
Common phrases
at face value
Related idioms
take at face value
Related words
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Frequently asked questions
What does “take at face value” mean?
To accept something as it appears, without questioning it.
How do you use “take at face value” in a sentence?
For example: “Don't take everything you read at face value.”
What are some synonyms for “take at face value”?
Synonyms include accept as true, take literally.
Is “take at face value” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
Yes. It is Band 8 vocabulary, and collocations such as take at face value, accept at face value help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.