Quick answer: “Set the Record Straight” means to correct a false impression or misunderstanding.
Set the record straight — to correct a false impression or misunderstanding by providing accurate information about what really happened or what is true.
Origin & History
The phrase draws on the image of a written record — a document that should be accurate and "straight" (correct, honest). If the record contains errors, you "set it straight" by amending it. The metaphorical use became common in English during the 20th century, and is now frequently used in journalism, politics, and everyday conversation.
It is especially common after rumours, misquotations, or public misunderstandings, where a person or organisation wishes to clarify the truth. Reference works such as the Cambridge Dictionary catalogue thousands of such figurative expressions, showing how idiomatic meanings take shape over time.
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| Let me set the record straight — I never said that. | Denying a false quote |
| The company issued a statement to set the record straight. | Corporate communication |
| She called a press conference to set the record straight about the rumours. | Public relations |
| I'd like to set the record straight: we arrived on time. | Correcting a colleague |
| The documentary set the record straight about the historical events. | Media and education |
Use It in Conversation
Dialogue Example
Tom: I heard you were late to the meeting and caused the delay.
Lisa: That's not true at all. Let me set the record straight — I arrived ten minutes early.
Tom: Oh, I must have had the wrong information. Sorry about that.
How to Use It
This idiom is often used at the start of a statement: "Let me set the record straight..." or "I want to set the record straight...". It signals that the speaker is about to correct incorrect information. It can also appear in the past tense: "She set the record straight in her interview."
Common Mistakes
Mistakes to Avoid
I want to fix the record straight.
I want to set the record straight. — Use 'set', not 'fix'.
Let me set a record straight.
Let me set the record straight. — Always use 'the record', not 'a record'.
Similar Idioms
Practise This Idiom
Want to understand the grammar behind this? Explore our Grammar guides.
Quick Check: Set the Record Straight
2 questions — test what you just learned.
1. What does “Set the Record Straight” mean?
2. Complete the sentence: “Let me _____ — I never said that.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "set the record straight" mean?
"Set the record straight" means to correct a false impression or misunderstanding by giving accurate information about what really happened or what is true.
Where does "set the record straight" come from?
The phrase comes from the idea of a written record that should be accurate and "straight" (correct). If it contains errors, you set it straight. The metaphorical use became common in the 20th century, especially in journalism and politics.
Can you give an example of "set the record straight" in a sentence?
Example: "Let me set the record straight — I never said that." The speaker is correcting a false belief that others hold about them.
Is "set the record straight" formal or informal?
It is neutral to formal. It is used in news articles, press releases, interviews, and everyday conversation where someone needs to correct misinformation.
What CEFR level is "set the record straight"?
This idiom is typically taught at B2 (Upper-Intermediate) level. It is common in media English, journalism, and professional communication.
What are common mistakes with "set the record straight"?
A common error is saying "fix the record straight". Always use "set". Also, say "the record", not "a record".
What idioms are similar to "set the record straight"?
Similar idioms include: "clear the air" (resolve misunderstandings), "get things straight" (clarify the facts), and "put the record straight" (British English variant with the same meaning).
Can "set the record straight" be used in formal writing?
Yes. It is appropriate in formal and semi-formal writing, including press releases and official statements. For example: "The company wishes to set the record straight regarding last week's report."
How do I practise idioms like "set the record straight"?
Use LexFizz's Flash Cards and Flip Tiles exercises. Notice the idiom in news interviews and opinion articles, and try writing your own correction sentences.
Does "set the record straight" mean the same in British and American English?
Yes. Both varieties use this idiom with the same meaning. British English also uses "put the record straight" as an alternative.