What does "off the record" mean?
"Off the record" means something said in confidence that shouldn't be reported or repeated. Here's what it means in journalism and everyday use.
What it means
Said in confidence - not to be reported, quoted, or passed on officially. The information is shared informally and should stay private.
"Off the record, I think the merger is going to fail."
"Can I tell you something off the record?"
"He spoke to journalists, but off the record."
In journalism
When a source speaks off the record, a reporter can use the information to inform their understanding but cannot quote or attribute it. The rules of this vary by context and agreement.
In everyday use
"Off the record" signals that what you're about to say is candid and confidential - the formal channel is being bypassed for a frank exchange.
On the record vs off the record
- On the record: can be quoted and attributed
- Off the record: confidential, not to be repeated officially
- Background: can be used but not attributed to the named person
Register
Professional to formal. Common in journalism, politics, and business. In casual conversation, people say "between you and me" or "don't tell anyone I said this."
A native would say
- "Between you and me" - casual confidential sharing
- "Just between us" - similar, informal
- "Strictly confidential" - formal
- "Not for publication" - journalism and communications
What does "off the record" mean?
Said in confidence - not to be reported, quoted, or passed on officially. The information is shared informally and should stay private.
"Off the record, I think the merger is going to fail."
"Can I tell you something off the record?"
"He spoke to journalists, but off the record."
Is "off the record" formal or informal?
Professional to formal. Common in journalism, politics, and business. In casual conversation, people say "between you and me" or "don't tell anyone I said this."
What's another way to say "off the record"?
- "Between you and me" - casual confidential sharing
- "Just between us" - similar, informal
- "Strictly confidential" - formal
- "Not for publication" - journalism and communications
Small talk and everyday replies have their own hidden rules.
LLH Tutor explains the social English that native speakers use without thinking twice.
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