What Does it Mean to Agree to 'Off the Record'?

“Off the record” is a phrase that can be used by a journalist or communicator during an interview or conversation. Some communicators or sources may wish to remain anonymous, but provide useful information to a member of the media. Some media may want to get to know a source or communicator better—without the source worrying about becoming the focal point of a story. Those conversations can also be off the record. If no one deems a conversation off the record, or sets rules in advance, most journalists will accept information gathered as “on the record.” The Associated Press published a discussion of on/off the record rules, because not everyone has the same definition of off the record. It’s important to always clarify a definition before an interview or conversation, if needed. These are the AP's definitions from PR News here.