Prima Facie (Adverb)

Meaning

At first sight.

Examples

• The case against the company appeared strong prima facie, but as more evidence came to light, it became clear that the situation was more complex.
• The allegations of misconduct seemed prima facie true, but the accused had yet to present their side of the story.
• At first glance, the data suggested a correlation between the two variables, but a closer examination revealed some discrepancies prima facie.
• The photographs of the crime scene prima facie suggested a violent struggle had taken place, but forensic analysis told a different story.
• The fact that the suspect was found near the scene of the crime with a suspicious object in their hand appeared prima facie incriminating, but they had a solid alibi.