off the record

Definition

Information given to journalists with the agreement it won't be published or attributed, theoretically. In practice, it's a trust exercise where everyone knows the rules until someone really wants to break them.

Example Usage

Off the record, the senator admitted the bill was doomed, then went on camera to express optimism about its chances.

Origin

Journalistic convention dating to early 20th century newspaper reporting

Fun Fact

Anthony Scaramucci's profanity-laced rant to a New Yorker reporter became one of the most famous 'off the record' failures when he never actually said those magic words.

Source: Political journalism terminology

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