For the record

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "For the record" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to clarify or emphasize a statement, often to ensure that it is officially noted or acknowledged. Example: "For the record, I did submit my report on time, despite what was said in the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For the Record.

The New York Times

For the record: flight.

The Economist

For the record: not true.

The New York Times

(For the record, she refrains).

The New York Times - Books

For the record, he does.

The New York Times

(For the record, it does).

Independent

(For the record, I believe he does).

The New York Times

For the record, he barely touched her.

The New Yorker

For the record: I am not Muslim.

The New York Times

For the record, I'm with you.

The New York Times

For the record, his answer was no.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "For the record" to introduce factual information or corrections, ensuring clarity and accuracy in formal settings or discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "For the record" in casual conversations; it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "Just so you know" or "FYI".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "For the record" serves as a discourse marker, typically used to introduce a statement intended for formal documentation or to clarify a point. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showcasing its use in emphasizing or correcting information. It highlights the speaker's intention to ensure the information is properly noted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "For the record" is a common discourse marker used primarily in news and media to introduce a statement that needs to be accurately noted. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, emphasizing its function in clarifying information or correcting misunderstandings. While highly effective in formal settings, it should be used sparingly in casual conversations to avoid sounding pretentious. Alternatives such as "Just so you know" may be more appropriate in informal contexts. Remember to employ "For the record" to ensure clarity and accuracy, particularly in discussions where precise documentation is essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Just so it's noted

Emphasizes the act of making something officially known, similar to ensuring something is "For the record", but with a slightly more casual tone.

Let it be known

A more formal way of stating something for posterity or official documentation, carrying a tone of declaration.

So it is clear

Focuses on ensuring understanding rather than just documenting, shifting the emphasis from recording to comprehension.

I want to state that

Directly indicates the speaker's intention to make a formal declaration, lacking the subtlety of "For the record".

To set the matter straight

Suggests a need to correct a misunderstanding or misrepresentation, adding a corrective element not always present in "For the record".

For future reference

Highlights the importance of the information for later consultation, emphasizing the archival aspect.

To clarify things

Indicates an intention to make something easier to understand, whereas "For the record" aims more at factual accuracy.

I'd like to add that

Signals an addition to an existing conversation or statement, often providing extra context or detail.

So there is no mistake

Focuses on preventing misunderstandings, adding a preventative aspect not central to "For the record".

Let me clarify

Signifies an intent to make something clearer, often because of potential confusion or ambiguity.

FAQs

How do you use "For the record" in a sentence?

"For the record" is used to introduce a statement that you want to be formally noted or remembered, often to correct a misunderstanding or provide important context. Example: "For the record, I submitted the report on time."

What can I say instead of "For the record"?

Alternatives to "For the record" include "just so it's noted", "let it be known", or "so it is clear", depending on the level of formality and the specific emphasis you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "For the record" in informal conversations?

While grammatically correct, using "For the record" in casual settings can sound overly formal or even pretentious. Consider using more relaxed alternatives like "Just so you know" or "FYI".

What's the difference between "For the record" and "Just so you know"?

"For the record" is generally used in more formal contexts to ensure that something is officially noted. "Just so you know" is more informal and simply conveys information without necessarily emphasizing its official status.