Not every conversation with a reporter is meant for publication. Off the record means the information may not be used in the story at all, not even without attribution, unless the source later changes the terms.

The agreement must be established clearly before the information is shared; after-the-fact declarations are often contested. Off-the-record briefings can still help a reporter understand context or pursue on-the-record confirmation elsewhere. Abuse of the designation to float unverifiable claims is a recurring frustration.

Different newsrooms and countries interpret the phrase with slight variations, so precise negotiation of terms is wise. Journalists who honor off-the-record agreements maintain the trust required for future sensitive conversations. Those who violate them rarely receive a second chance with the same source.

• Information that may not be published or attributed
• Agreement should be clear before disclosure
• Can guide reporting without direct use
• Depends on mutual trust and precise terms