Not for distribution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Not for distribution" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a document or information should not be shared or distributed to others. Example: "This report is confidential and marked as 'Not for distribution' to protect sensitive information."

✓ Grammatically correct

Documents

Confidential information

Restricted access

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The 80-page draft, marked "Confidential -- Not for Distribution Draft Jan . 9 2003," was posted in midafternoon on the Web site of the Center for Public Integrity, www.

The New York Times

The discs, he would learn, were made not for distribution but for the Federal Radio Commission (precursor to the Federal Communications Commission) to use in disputes involving broadcasters.

The New York Times - Arts

Every one of the 112 pages in the booklet is marked "not for distribution or publication" and it is easy to see why.

Independent

In the case of Mr. Bah, records were marked "proprietary information — not for distribution" by the Corrections Corporation of America, a private company that runs the Elizabeth Detention Center and many others under contract with the federal government.

The New York Times

The internal Verizon website, marked "for Verizon Wireless management only, not for distribution to non-supervisory employees", offers leadership training on how to react to any employees who mention or discuss unionizing.

The Guardian - Business

muPDF and Ghostscript software are also distributed as open technology under the GPL, freely available on the net for unsupported use, but not for distribution in proprietary commercial products.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Many of the cultures are not ready for distribution.

The New York Times

The goal is true interactivity, and we rely on FB, not only for distribution, but for content and story ideas.

The Washington Post

The West Virginia authorities say none of this would have been possible if it had not been for distribution companies pouring drugs into the state.

The Guardian

(f) A prescription is not required for distribution or dispensing of the substance pursuant to any other Federal, State or local law.

Cornell University

However, Siprnet is not recommended for distribution of top-secret information.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When marking a document as "Not for distribution", consider also specifying who the intended audience is to avoid any ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "Not for distribution" on every document, as overuse can diminish its impact. Reserve it for truly sensitive or confidential materials.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Not for distribution" functions as a restrictive modifier, typically applied to documents, data, or information. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to limit the dissemination of the specified content.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Not for distribution" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to restrict the sharing of information, as validated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news, academic and scientific contexts, it serves as a clear indicator of confidentiality or limited access. Alternatives such as "confidential" or "for internal use only" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. When using this phrase, ensure that you are not overusing it, and specify the intended audience whenever possible to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Confidential

Single word expressing the essence of restriction.

For internal use only

Specifies that the material is limited to those within the organization.

Restricted access

Highlights that access is limited to certain individuals.

Proprietary information

Indicates that the information is owned and protected.

Do not disseminate

Direct instruction not to spread the information.

Not for public release

Specifies that the material should not be made public.

Embargoed

Indicates a temporary restriction on distribution.

Keep private

General instruction to maintain confidentiality.

Off the record

Indicates that the information is not intended for attribution or distribution.

Not to be shared

Straightforward instruction against sharing the information.

FAQs

When should I use "Not for distribution"?

Use "Not for distribution" when you want to clearly indicate that a document or information is intended for a limited audience and should not be shared beyond that group.

What's a more formal alternative to "Not for distribution"?

For a more formal alternative, consider using "confidential" or "proprietary information", depending on the context.

Is it necessary to specify an audience when using "Not for distribution"?

While not always necessary, specifying the intended audience (e.g., "For internal use only") can help avoid ambiguity and further restrict access.

What's the difference between "Not for distribution" and "not for public release"?

"Not for distribution" is a general restriction, while "not for public release" specifically means the information should not be shared with the general public but may be shared within a specific organization or group.