condition of anonymity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "condition of anonymity" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts where someone is allowed to remain unidentified or unnamed, often in interviews or surveys. Example: "The sources provided information under the condition of anonymity to protect their identities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

The official spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

They, however, spoke on condition of anonymity.

Independent

Nearly all spoke on condition of anonymity.

Independent

Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

He spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times - Tech

The executives spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

All three spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times - Sports

They spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

The person spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When quoting a source under the "condition of anonymity", ensure that the information provided does not inadvertently reveal their identity. Be vague about details that could compromise their anonymity.

Common error

Avoid revealing details later in the text that contradict or undermine the initial "condition of anonymity". Maintain consistent obscurity to protect the source.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "condition of anonymity" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a verb, noun or clause. It indicates the circumstances under which information is provided, emphasizing that the source's identity is to remain secret. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase is common in news reporting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "condition of anonymity" is a commonly used expression, primarily in the field of journalism and news reporting. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. It signifies that information is being shared with the understanding that the source's identity will be protected. Usage examples show that it is often used when individuals fear retribution or wish to avoid professional or personal repercussions. When writing, it is important to maintain consistent anonymity and avoid inadvertently revealing details that could identify the source. Alternatives like "without attribution" or "with guaranteed confidentiality" can also be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without attribution

Highlights that the information is given without identifying the source.

on the understanding of non-disclosure

Stresses the agreement that the information will not be revealed.

anonymously sourced

Focuses on the anonymity of the source rather than the condition.

with assurance of privacy

Focuses on the guarantee that personal information will be protected.

with guaranteed confidentiality

Highlights the assurance of keeping information private and protected.

protected by anonymity

Emphasizes that anonymity offers a form of protection to the source.

in confidence

A more concise way of saying something is shared privately.

subject to secrecy

Indicates that the information is bound by rules of confidentiality.

under a cloak of secrecy

Emphasizes the secrecy aspect, suggesting hidden or concealed information.

in secret

A simple and direct way to express that something is kept confidential.

FAQs

How to use "condition of anonymity" in a sentence?

You can use "condition of anonymity" to indicate that a source is providing information but does not want to be identified. For example, "The official spoke on the "condition of anonymity" to discuss the sensitive matter".

What does "condition of anonymity" mean in journalism?

In journalism, "condition of anonymity" means that a source is providing information to a reporter with the understanding that their identity will not be revealed in the published story. This protects the source from potential repercussions.

Which is a better alternative to "condition of anonymity": "off the record" or "background"?

The best alternative depends on the specific agreement with the source. "Off the record" means the information cannot be published at all. "Background" means the information can be published, but without attribution to the source. "Condition of anonymity" is similar to "background", but emphasizes the protection of the source's identity.

What are the ethical considerations when granting a source "condition of anonymity"?

Journalists must carefully weigh the public interest in the information against the potential risks to the source. They must also ensure that the information is credible and that granting "condition of anonymity" is justified.