to set the record straight

USAGE SUMMARY

"to set the record straight" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to correct false information or clarify a misunderstanding. Example: After the article misrepresented her statements, the politician held a press conference to set the record straight.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

He wanted to set the record straight.

The New Yorker

"We wanted to set the record straight".

The New York Times

He needs to set the record straight.

The Washington Post

Richard tries to set the record straight.

The Guardian - Music

Time to set the record straight.

The Guardian - Opinion

But now I would like to set the record straight".

The New Yorker

"All he needs is enough to set the record straight".

The New York Times

Still, he wants to set the record straight.

The New York Times

The first is to set the record straight.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

I had to set the record straight--a little.

Huffington Post

I think it is important to set the record straight..

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to set the record straight" when aiming to correct misinformation or address misunderstandings, ensuring factual accuracy in your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "to set the record straight" excessively, as it can make your writing sound defensive or argumentative. Consider alternative phrases like "to clarify the situation" or "to provide context" to maintain a balanced tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to set the record straight" is as an idiomatic phrase, typically serving as an infinitive phrase that introduces a correction or clarification. Ludwig shows it's used to introduce a revised or accurate version of events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

99%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to set the record straight" is a widely used idiom for correcting inaccuracies and clarifying misunderstandings. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase serves to rectify false information, providing a more accurate account of events. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overuse, opting for alternatives like "to clarify the situation" or "to provide context" when appropriate. Whether you're writing a formal statement or casual communication, using "to set the record straight" effectively ensures clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to offer a correction

Directly indicates the act of rectifying an error.

to give an accurate account

Focuses on providing a truthful and detailed report.

to correct the misconception

Specifically addresses correcting a false or inaccurate belief.

to tell the real story

Highlights the telling of the authentic version of events.

to clarify the situation

Focuses on providing clarity rather than necessarily correcting something.

to straighten things out

Suggests resolving a problem or misunderstanding by clarifying information.

to clear up any confusion

Aims to resolve any lack of understanding or ambiguity.

to present the facts

Emphasizes the presentation of accurate information.

to get the facts out

Focuses on divulging information and transparency.

to put things into perspective

Aims to provide a balanced view or understanding.

FAQs

What does "to set the record straight" mean?

The phrase "to set the record straight" means to correct false information or clarify a misunderstanding to ensure accuracy is presented.

How can I use "to set the record straight" in a sentence?

You can use "to set the record straight" when you want to correct something previously stated or written, for example: "After the incorrect report, the company issued a statement to "set the record straight"".

What can I say instead of "to set the record straight"?

You can use alternatives like "to clarify the situation", "to correct the misconception", or "to provide an accurate account" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "to set the record straight"?

It's appropriate when there's been misinformation or misunderstanding that needs immediate and clear correction. It's also used to offer a contrasting viewpoint supported by factual data.