off the record

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "off the record" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used when a conversation or comment is not intended to be shared with the public, and the speaker wishes to emphasize that what they are saying is confidential and not for public distribution. For example: "Off the record, I think this decision could have been made sooner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Many other players seethed off the record.

The Guardian - Sport

(Wang asked to keep the user numbers off the record).

TechCrunch

"Dumpweed" kicks off the record, and explores sexual frustration.

Wikipedia

Off the record?

The Economist

Well, technically off the record.

The New York Times

That's off the record.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Strictly off-the-record.

The Guardian - Music

Remarks are Off-the-Record.

Stanford University

It's an off-the-record event".

The New Yorker

Wed 10/16 Off-The-Record (OTR) Chat Off-the-Record Communication, or, Why Not to Use PGP.

Princeton University

Off-the-record evidence suggests that these numbers are large.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In business or personal settings, clarify the scope of "off the record" conversations. Specify whether the entire conversation, or only certain portions, are intended to be confidential.

Common error

Don't assume that an "off the record" agreement provides legal protection. While it establishes an ethical understanding of confidentiality, it may not hold up in court. For legal protection, consider a formal non-disclosure agreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "off the record" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that what is being said should not be publicly disclosed. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in various contexts, such as news and academic discussions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

21%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "off the record" is a request for confidentiality, signaling that information shared should not be published. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While mainly used in news and media and academic contexts, it's important to clarify the scope when using it, and not to misinterpret it as legally binding. Alternatives such as "in confidence" or "not for attribution" can be used. Remember, it's key for building trust, but always ensure mutual understanding between parties. The phrase occurs uncommonly, but when used in the right context, it shows discretion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In confidence

Specifies that the information is being shared privately and should not be disclosed.

Not for attribution

Indicates that the information can be used but the source should not be identified.

Between you and me

Emphasizes the personal and private nature of the information shared.

Confidentially speaking

Highlights that the following information is to be treated as a secret.

Sub rosa

A more formal and less common way of saying something is confidential.

Unofficially

Describes something done or said that lacks formal authorization or recognition.

Privately

Indicates that something is to be kept within a limited circle of people.

Not to be disclosed

Directly states that the information should not be revealed to others.

Under wraps

Suggests that information is being kept secret or concealed.

In strict secrecy

Emphasizes the need for utmost confidentiality.

FAQs

What does "off the record" mean?

The phrase "off the record" means that a statement or conversation is not intended for publication or public dissemination. It is a request for confidentiality, typically made to journalists.

How is "off the record" used in journalism?

In journalism, "off the record" is a condition agreed upon between a source and a reporter, indicating that the information shared cannot be published or attributed to the source. It's crucial for building trust and obtaining sensitive information.

What's the difference between "off the record" and "on background"?

"Off the record" means the information cannot be published at all, while "on background" allows the information to be used but without directly attributing it to the source. This provides anonymity but allows the information to inform reporting.

What are some alternatives to saying "off the record"?

You can use alternatives like "in confidence", "not for attribution", or "between you and me" to indicate that information should be kept private.