Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

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
STRONGEST
self-evident
STRONG
clear obvious plain
ADVERB
at first view, before investigation
Synonyms
WEAK
appearing at first sight at the first blush evidential

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.

“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

Any off-world bug could be analysed, possibly even brought back to Earth, providing prima facie evidence to at least significantly limit any scientific push back that may ensue.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2025

Violation of this rule is considered prima facie evidence of reckless driving.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 21, 2023

Page 8: impossibility of alternatives which seemed prima facie impossibility of alternatives which seemed primâ facie Page 119: with it.

From Our Knowledge of the External World as a Field for Scientific Method in Philosophy by Russell, Bertrand