Off the record, on background, deep background and not for attribution describe different ground rules for how a journalist may use information a source provides. Because the exact meaning of each term varies between journalists and outlets, the specific rules should always be agreed explicitly before, not after, the conversation.
These terms set the ground rules for a conversation between a source and a journalist. On the record means any statement can be quoted and directly attributed to the source by name. Off the record generally means information is shared to inform the journalist's understanding or point them toward other angles, but is not for publication in any form. Not for attribution allows direct quotation, but the source is identified only in general terms, such as 'a company official', rather than by name.
On background sits between these: the substance of what is said can be reported, often with a general description of the source, but direct quotation is usually not permitted. Deep background is murkier still; sources on this point note that its meaning varies by outlet, with some using it to mean information that can inform a story or guide the reporter to other sources, and others using it to mean the information can be used without any attribution at all.
The most important fact about these terms is that they are not uniform across the industry. Wikipedia specifically notes that confusion between similar terms, particularly 'off the record' and 'unattributable', has led to a need for more detailed, explicit agreements. Because of this, the safest practice for any source, including a company spokesperson, is to agree the exact terms with the journalist before speaking, not to assume a shared understanding of a label.
How to: 1) Decide before the conversation which category applies, if any. 2) State it explicitly to the journalist and confirm they agree, rather than assuming a shared definition. 3) Default to on the record unless there is a specific reason not to. 4) Remember that some journalists do not honor off-the-record requests made after information has already been shared. 5) When in doubt, assume anything said to a journalist may be published.
QUESTIONS
What does off the record mean?
It generally means the information is shared to help the journalist understand a situation, not for publication. However, because usage varies, this should be explicitly agreed with the journalist before speaking, not assumed.
What is the difference between on background and deep background?
On background usually allows the substance to be reported with a general source description but no direct quotes. Deep background is used inconsistently across outlets; some treat it as guidance only, others as information usable without any attribution. Confirm the specific meaning with the journalist.
Can I ask for something to be off the record after I've already said it?
This is risky and not reliably honored. Ground rules should be agreed before speaking. Once information has been shared on the record, a journalist is generally not obligated to retroactively treat it as off the record.
What does 'not for attribution' mean?
It means the information can be quoted directly, but the source is identified only in general terms, such as by role rather than by name, rather than being named outright.
SOURCES
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