- Used to introduce a statement that the speaker wants to state clearly, officially, or emphatically, ensuring there is no misunderstanding about their position or a fact.
- Often used to correct a misconception or state something publicly and definitively.
Explanation
Origin
- Comes from the idea of making an official note in a written record, such as court transcripts or meeting minutes.
- Let the record show... is a related formal phrase used in legal settings.
- It implies the speaker wants this specific point to be noted and remembered accurately.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Just sayin'... (Can sometimes be used to state a point firmly but casually, though often less formal/official)
- Real talk... (Asserts truth/seriousness)
- Peep game... (AAVE, less direct synonym, implies 'understand the real situation I'm about to state')
Milder/Standard:
- I would like to state that...
- It should be noted that...
Situational Appropriateness
- Can be used in both informal and formal settings.
- Particularly common in professional, political, or legal contexts, but also used in personal disagreements to state one's position clearly.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally clear. Ensure the tone doesn't sound overly aggressive or defensive unless intended.
Examples
- For the record, I was never in favour of that decision.
- Just for the record, I finished my part of the project on time.
- Let me state, for the record, that these allegations are completely false.
Dialogue
Manager: It seems the team missed the deadline again.
Employee A: Well, for the record, my report was submitted two days early.
Manager: Okay, noted. Let's look into where the delay occurred then.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: For the record, I think AI regulation is necessary, but over-regulation could stifle innovation. #AI #TechPolicy
- Forum Post: Just for the record, the bug wasn't caused by my code commit. The logs show it existed before that. #DevTalk
- Facebook Comment: Lots of speculation going around. For the record, we broke up amicably and wish each other the best.
Response Patterns
- Listeners typically pay close attention, recognizing the speaker is making an important or definitive statement.
- They might nod to acknowledge they've heard and understood the statement.
- In formal settings (like meetings), someone might actually note it down.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
Depending on the context, listeners might:
- Accept the statement without comment.
- Ask for clarification or evidence (Can you elaborate on why you weren't in favour?).
- Challenge the statement if they disagree (Well, my recollection is different...).
Conversation Starter
- No. Used mid-conversation to clarify a position or fact related to the ongoing topic.
Intonation
- Spoken with a clear, deliberate, and often slightly formal tone.
- Stress is usually placed on record. For the RECord...
- There's often a slight pause after the phrase.
Generation Differences
- Used across most adult age groups.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.