face-to-face

adverb or adjective

ˈfās-tə-ˈfās 

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

• personally
• tête-à-tête

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

The Star Wars: The Force Awakens star came face-to-face with the theme park performer who portrays Rey from the film. —Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 22 June 2024

Previously, experts who spoke with PEOPLE recommended that anyone who comes face-to-face with a grizzly should make a loud noise, hold their hands above their head, and have bear spray ready in case the animal decides to charge. —Charlotte Phillipp, Peoplemag, 21 June 2024

But after several election cycles with no debates, face-to-face meetings between the leading candidates have become a staple of the fall campaign and something voters have come to rely upon. —Mark Barabak, The Mercury News, 21 June 2024

That way, people can be involved face-to-face in projects, brainstorming, and other commercial meetings. —Eleanor Pringle, Fortune Europe, 20 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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