Making a formal declaration; asserting position or fact without ambiguity.

To ensure that what follows will be recognized as factual by all parties involved, reducing future misinterpretation.

When someone wants to correct misinformation, state a new decision, or emphasize their viewpoint during discussions such as meetings, press conferences, legal proceedings, etc.

Professional settings (meetings, reports), public announcements, media interviews, court testimonies, and any situation where credibility matters.

For the record

For the record

A declarative sentence or phrase indicating what is being stated officially, such as a fact, decision, or clarification.

• I'd like to state
• I want to make it clear
• let me clarify that

• Just to be clear
• Let the record show
• I wish to place on record my position/stance

Using it interchangeably with informal markers such as 'by the way'; misusing it can sound confrontational when intended merely to emphasize clarity.

Off-the-record (informally stated), just for the record (less formal tone)

Do not confuse with casual expressions like 'just kidding' or colloquial idioms; its use signals a desire for accountability and may come across as defensive if used negatively without proper context.

• Off the record (confidentially)
• Just for the record

The phrase carries an assertive, authoritative nuance—when spoken positively it conveys confidence in factual accuracy; when paired with criticism it often implies disagreement while still maintaining an official stance.

Signals that the speaker intends to establish an officially recognized position, thereby reducing ambiguity and potential future disputes.

Officially stating position

This phrase is suitable for formal, public, or official settings where clarity and accountability are essential.

I wish to place on record my objection to…, Let me go on record as saying…