Phrases Conversational Starters and Small Talk

On the face of it...

Meaning

At first glance...

Translation language

John: His explanation seems reasonable.
Alice: <b>On the face of it</b>, yes, but I have some doubts.
John: What makes you doubt it?
Alice: There are inconsistencies. <b>On the face of it</b> it seems okay, but something doesn't add up.