correct the record

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "correct the record" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when someone wants to clarify or amend previously stated information or to set the facts straight. Example: "After reviewing the statements made during the meeting, I would like to take a moment to correct the record regarding our budget allocations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Deutscher ought to correct the record.

The New York Times

Alterman works hard to correct the record".

The New York Times

He asks Slipper to correct the record.

The Guardian

I would like to correct the record.

The Economist

Thus does McCaig correct the record.

The New York Times - Books

"Let me correct the record," she said.

The New York Times

"Sully kept saying, 'I want to correct the record.

The New Yorker

"Please correct the record," she said, arms crossed.

The Guardian

I feel I must, as they say, correct the record.

The Washington Post

So he decided to try to correct the record.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Moraitis said he did not realise that he "could half-correct the record".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "correct the record" when aiming to formally address and rectify inaccuracies in a previous statement or account. It's suitable in professional or journalistic contexts where accuracy is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "correct the record" in casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "I want to clarify" or "actually" are more appropriate for informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "correct the record" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression used to formally rectify or clarify inaccurate information. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it serves to introduce an amendment or clarification to a previous statement or understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "correct the record" is a widely used phrase to formally rectify inaccuracies. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and predominantly found in News & Media. While versatile, its formal tone makes it more suitable for professional settings than casual conversations. Alternatives like ""set the record straight"" or ""clarify the facts"" may be more appropriate depending on the context. Remember to prioritize accuracy and clarity when using this phrase, aiming to prevent misunderstandings and ensure factual correctness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set the record straight

Emphasizes clarifying misinformation or public perception.

clarify the facts

Focuses on making the truth clearer and more understandable.

rectify the information

Highlights fixing errors and ensuring accuracy.

amend the statement

Implies a formal change to a previously made declaration.

adjust the account

Suggests modifying a narrative or description to reflect reality.

revise the story

Indicates a more substantial alteration of events.

set things right

Implies correcting not just facts, but also situations.

restate the facts

Involves repeating the correct information for emphasis.

offer a correction

Formally providing an update to fix an error.

make an adjustment

Suggests a minor alteration to improve accuracy.

FAQs

How can I use "correct the record" in a sentence?

You can use "correct the record" to introduce a clarification or amendment to a previous statement. For example, "I'd like to "correct the record" regarding the budget allocation discussed earlier."

What phrases are similar to "correct the record"?

Alternatives to "correct the record" include "set the record straight", "clarify the facts", or "rectify the information". The best choice depends on the specific context and level of formality.

Is it always necessary to "correct the record"?

It's important to "correct the record" when factual inaccuracies could lead to misunderstandings or have significant consequences. However, minor discrepancies in informal settings might not require such a formal correction.

What's the difference between "correct the record" and "set the record straight"?

"Correct the record" and ""set the record straight"" are quite similar. "Correct the record" is often used in more formal or official contexts, while "set the record straight" can be used more broadly, even in informal settings.