When someone goes on the record for something, it means that they publicly state their position or opinion on the topic. The spelling of "went on the record for" can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /wɛnt ɒn ðə ˈrɛkɔːd fɔːr/. This transcription indicates that the word "went" is pronounced with a short "e" sound as in "bed", and the word "record" is pronounced with stress on the second syllable, as in "re-CORD".
"Going on the record for" is an idiomatic expression used primarily in journalism or legal contexts to refer to an official statement or declaration made by an individual that can be publicly attributed to them. When someone voluntarily provides information or expresses their opinion on a particular matter while knowing that their statement will be documented and linked to their identity, they are said to have gone on the record. This phrase typically conveys a sense of accountability and willingness to take ownership of one's statements.
By going on the record, individuals acknowledge the potential consequences of their words and are willing to subject themselves to scrutiny, criticism, or even legal ramifications. This act demonstrates their intention to be transparent, credible, and reliable sources of information. When a person goes on the record, it allows journalists, investigators, or interested parties to reference and cite their statements, adding credibility and veracity to the information being reported or discussed.
Going on the record is often distinguished from speaking anonymously or off the record. While anonymous sources often provide valuable insights but choose to keep their identity concealed, individuals who go on the record display their willingness to have their complete name associated with the information they are providing, upholding journalistic or legal standards of integrity. This act fosters transparency and accountability in various fields where accurate and attributed information is crucial.