face-to-face

adverb or adjective

ˈfās-tə-ˈfās How to pronounce face-to-face (audio)
Synonyms of face-to-facenext
1
: within each other's sight or presence
met and talked face-to-face
a face-to-face consultation
2
: in or into direct contact or confrontation
came face-to-face with the problem

Synonyms of face-to-face

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Examples of face-to-face in a Sentence

I won't believe that accusation until I meet with him face-to-face and ask him myself came face-to-face with her lifelong fear of flying even before the plane left the runway
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The tableau of Hansen going face-to-face with suspects seated in suburban kitchens became so familiar it was spoofed in a comedy sketch that opened the 2006 Emmy Awards. — Los Angeles Times, 31 Aug. 2026 The resort is a stone's throw from a major sea turtle habitat, and snorkeling tours that result in face-to-face encounters with a myriad of marine life are offered. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026 After the ritual face-to-face pose, Hrgovic stepped in front of Itauma and began posing for the cameras, prompting Itauma to shove him off the stage. — ABC News, 28 Aug. 2026 Kansas City, Kansas, firefighters may not get a chance to tell county officials about their public safety concerns face-to-face, according to a recent court ruling. — Sofi Zeman august 26, Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for face-to-face

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of face-to-face was in the 14th century

Rhymes for face-to-face

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Browse Nearby Words

face title
face-to-face
face towel
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Cite this Entry

“Face-to-face.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/face-to-face. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

face-to-face

adverb or adjective
ˌfās-tə-ˈfās
1
: within each other's close presence
met face-to-face
2
: in or into direct contact or confrontation
face-to-face with a crisis
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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