offrecord

Off the record, or offrecord in some spellings, is a term used to describe information that a source provides to a journalist or official without the intention that it be attributed to the source in published form. The essential idea is that the substance can inform understanding or context, but the source’s identity (and sometimes specific details) should not appear in the final reporting. The exact scope is typically determined by an agreement between the source and the journalist or institution, and it can vary by outlet or situation.

In journalism, off the record material may be used to shape questions, outline background, or clarify issues, but reporters usually withhold attribution or paraphrase in a way that prevents the source from being named. In diplomacy and politics, officials may offer background briefings or non-attributed information to help reporters grasp policy without committing to formal statements. Related classifications include on the record (attributable) and on background or deep background (attribution limited or removed entirely).

Practical considerations include the non-binding nature of such agreements; a source can withdraw permission, and editors may impose their own policies. In the digital era, the persistence of records can complicate assurances of non-attribution, reinforcing the need for clear mutual understanding. The concept also appears in other fields where confidential information is used for analysis without disclosure of the source.

See also: On the record, background, deep background, anonymity.