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prima facie

[prahy-muh fey-shee-ee, fey-shee, fey-shuh, pree-] / ˈpraɪ mə ˈfeɪ ʃiˌi, ˈfeɪ ʃi, ˈfeɪ ʃə, ˈpri- /
ADJECTIVE
plain or clear on initial investigation
Synonyms


ADVERB
at first view, before investigation
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

To them, Hargitay was, prima facie, the least challenging choice amid polarizing comedians and a shrinking roster of late-night hosts.

From Salon Sep. 15, 2026

Under Batson, the first step asks whether the defendant has made a prima facie showing of discrimination.

From Slate Apr. 10, 2026

“The ignition of the Saddleridge Fire by SCE’s power and transmission lines and equipment is prima facie evidence of SCE’s negligence,” states the complaint, which was filed by acting U.S.

From Los Angeles Times Oct. 10, 2025

“Every person born in the country,” wrote Bates in late November 1862, “is, at the moment of birth, prima facie a citizen…without any reference to race or color, or any other accidental circumstance.”

From The Wall Street Journal Sep. 4, 2025

Now the earlier part of this allegation is conceded by us entirely: prima facie it constitutes a very strong argument.

From The Traditional Text of the Holy Gospels by John William Burgon




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