pri·ma fa·cie
ˌprī-mə-ˈfā-shə 
-shē,
-sē,
also -shē-ˌē,
-sē-ˌē
: at first view : on the first appearance
1
: true, valid, or sufficient at first impression : apparent
the theory … gives a prima facie solution—
R. J. Butler
R. J. Butler2
3
: legally sufficient to establish a fact or a case unless disproved
prima facie evidence
Synonyms
Examples of prima facie in a Sentence
Adjective
a prima facie case of tax fraud
There is strong prima facie evidence that she committed perjury.
Recent Examples on the Web
David G.w. Birch, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024
People with prima facie recognition but not full refugee status remained in limbo for decades.
—Nanjala Nyabola, Foreign Affairs, 10 Oct. 2019
William Thornton | Wthornton@al.com, al, 25 July 2022
Misra acknowledged the prima facie merits of the medical board’s allegations in both cases but did not deny or admit liability, according to his stipulated settlements.
—Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2021
See all Example Sentences for prima facie 
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Adverb
Well, one option might be to assume that the anonymous cash will be used primarily by criminals and possession of it will be taken to be prima facie evidence of criminality.
—David G.w. Birch, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024
People with prima facie recognition but not full refugee status remained in limbo for decades.
—Nanjala Nyabola, Foreign Affairs, 10 Oct. 2019
Adjective
According to the Alabama Department of Labor, the law also states that the presence of any person under 18 years of age in any restricted business establishment or restricted occupation shall be prima facie evidence of employment.
—William Thornton | Wthornton@al.com, al, 25 July 2022
Misra acknowledged the prima facie merits of the medical board’s allegations in both cases but did not deny or admit liability, according to his stipulated settlements.
—Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2021
See all Example Sentences for prima facie
Dictionary Entries Near prima facie
Cite this Entry
“Prima facie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prima%20facie. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLegal Definition
prima facie
1 of 2 adverb
pri·ma fa·cie
ˈprī-mə-ˈfā-shə, -sē, -shē
: at first view : on first appearance absent other information or evidence
guidelines which would prima facie accredit new entrance examinations as nondiscriminatory—S. L. Lynch
compare ex facie
S. L. Lynchprima facie
2 of 2 adjective
: sufficient to establish a fact or case unless disproved
prima facie proof
a prima facie showing
Etymology
Adverb
Latin
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