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B1 noun / verb #19 most common 17 min read

records

Top 19

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips records in 30 Seconds

Explanation records in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'records' is a word you might hear when talking about music or simple lists. Think of a 'record' as a big, black plastic disc that plays music. You might say, 'I like music records.' It is also used for simple writing. For example, if you write your name on a list, you are making a record. At this level, you don't need to worry about the complex meanings. Just remember that records are things we write down so we don't forget them, or they are things we use to listen to songs. The word is usually plural because we often have more than one. You might see it in a classroom when the teacher 'records' who is present. It's a useful word for basic daily life, especially when talking about hobbies like music or sports.

At the A2 level, you start to see 'records' used in more specific ways. You might learn about 'world records' in sports, like the fastest runner or the highest jumper. You also learn that 'records' can be official papers. For example, a school has 'records' of your grades. As a verb, 'records' means to save sound or video. You might say, 'My phone records video.' This is a very common way to use the word today. You should also start to notice that the noun and the verb sound a little different, but the main thing is to understand that 'records' are about keeping information for later. Whether it's a song, a video, or a list of names, 'records' help us remember what happened in the past.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'records' as both a noun and a verb in various contexts. You understand that 'medical records' are important for health and 'financial records' are important for money. You can use the word to talk about history, such as 'historical records.' You are also aware of common phrases like 'keep records' or 'break a record.' At this level, you should pay attention to the pronunciation difference: the noun is RE-cord and the verb is re-CORD. You can use 'records' to describe how a system works, like 'The computer records every click.' This level requires you to be more precise with the word, using it to describe documentation and achievement in both personal and professional settings.

At the B2 level, you can use 'records' in more abstract and formal ways. You might discuss 'public records' and their importance in a democracy, or 'track records' when talking about someone's career history. You understand the nuance of 'off the record' in journalism and 'for the record' in formal statements. You are also able to use synonyms like 'archives' or 'documentation' to avoid repeating 'records' too much. You can talk about the 'fossil record' in science or 'court records' in law. Your use of the verb form should be natural, and you should be able to use it in different tenses, such as 'The data has been recorded' or 'They are recording the session.' You understand that 'records' implies a level of officiality and permanence.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the word 'records' and its many implications. You can use it to discuss complex topics like 'archival integrity' or the 'sociological impact of digital records.' You are aware of the subtle differences between 'records,' 'data,' and 'information.' You can use the word in idiomatic expressions with ease and understand the cultural significance of 'vinyl records' in the history of media. You might use the word in academic writing to describe the 'historical record' of a particular era. Your pronunciation is perfect, and you never confuse the noun and verb forms. You can also use related words like 'record-breaking' or 'record-keeping' as adjectives to add detail to your descriptions.

At the C2 level, you master the word 'records' as a tool for precise and sophisticated communication. You can use it to explore philosophical questions about how humanity 'records' its existence and the limitations of the 'historical record.' You are comfortable using the word in highly technical fields, such as database management or legal theory, where 'records' have very specific definitions. You can appreciate the word's etymology and how its meaning has evolved from 'remembering' to 'documenting.' You use 'records' with total flexibility, moving between its literal and metaphorical meanings effortlessly. Whether you are analyzing the 'geological record' of the Earth or the 'diplomatic records' of a conflict, you use the word with authority and nuance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

records in 30 Seconds

Records are stored pieces of information, such as documents, data, or physical music discs, used for future reference or as official evidence of events.
The term also refers to the best performances ever achieved in sports or other fields, which are officially measured and documented as benchmarks.
As a verb, records describes the act of capturing sound, video, or data into a permanent format for later playback or analysis.
In administrative and legal contexts, records are essential for maintaining accountability, historical accuracy, and organizational memory across various institutions.

The word records is a versatile English term that functions as both a plural noun and a third-person singular verb. At its core, the noun refers to information that has been preserved in a permanent form, whether that be written on paper, stored in a digital database, or etched into a physical medium like a vinyl disc. In the modern world, we are surrounded by records; they are the backbone of our legal, medical, and historical systems. When we speak of 'public records,' we are referring to the documented history of government actions or individual legal statuses. In a more competitive sense, 'records' represent the pinnacle of human achievement. When an athlete runs faster than anyone else in history, they set a new world record. This usage highlights the concept of a 'record' as a benchmark or a standard that has been officially noted and verified.

Administrative Context: In offices and institutions, records are the systematic logs of transactions, meetings, and decisions. Without these, organizational memory would fail, and accountability would be impossible.

The hospital maintains strict records of every patient's medical history to ensure safety.

Beyond the dry world of data, 'records' has a deeply cultural and nostalgic meaning in the realm of music. Before the digital revolution, vinyl records were the primary way people consumed music. Today, despite the dominance of streaming services, vinyl records have seen a massive resurgence. Collectors value them for their tactile nature, the large-scale artwork on the sleeves, and the warm, analog sound they produce. In this context, a 'record' is a physical artifact, a piece of plastic that holds the vibrations of a performance. When you 'play records,' you are engaging in a ritual that connects you to the history of recorded sound. This dual nature of the word—as both a cold, hard fact in a ledger and a warm, artistic expression on a turntable—makes it one of the most interesting words in the English language.

Sports and Achievement: A 'track record' refers to a person's past performance, while a 'world record' is the absolute best performance ever documented in a specific category.

She holds several Olympic records in swimming, proving her dominance in the pool.

As a verb, 'records' describes the act of capturing information or sound. When a device records a conversation, it is converting live sound waves into a format that can be replayed later. In a social context, when someone 'records' their thoughts in a diary, they are engaging in the act of preservation. The verb form is essential for understanding how we create the very nouns we discussed earlier. Every historical record exists because someone, at some point, decided to record the event. This relationship between the action and the result is fundamental to human civilization's ability to pass down knowledge through generations. Whether it is a scientist who records data from an experiment or a journalist who records an interview, the act is one of creating a legacy.

The security camera records everyone who enters the building for safety purposes.

Legal and Formal Use: In a court of law, 'for the record' means that what is being said is being officially documented and cannot be easily retracted or ignored later.

I want to state, for the records, that I was not present during the incident.

Finally, we must consider the digital age's impact on 'records.' Today, most records are not physical papers but bits and bytes stored on servers. This has changed how we interact with them; they are now searchable, shareable, and unfortunately, hackable. The concept of 'digital records' encompasses everything from your browser history to your bank statements. Even as the medium changes, the fundamental purpose remains the same: to provide a reliable account of what has happened. Whether it is an ancient clay tablet or a modern blockchain ledger, records serve as the collective memory of humanity, allowing us to learn from the past and plan for the future. Understanding this word is not just about learning vocabulary; it is about understanding how we document our existence.

Modern software records every keystroke to help developers find and fix bugs.

Using records correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical function. As a plural noun, it usually follows an adjective or a possessive noun. For example, 'financial records' or 'the company's records.' In these cases, it refers to a collection of documents. When using it as a verb, it must agree with a third-person singular subject, such as 'he,' 'she,' 'it,' or a singular noun like 'the machine.' For instance, 'The device records the temperature every hour.' It is important to distinguish between these two roles to ensure your sentences are grammatically sound and clear to your audience.

As a Plural Noun: Use 'records' when referring to multiple documents, music discs, or historical achievements. It often acts as the object of a verb like 'keep,' 'check,' or 'break.'

We need to check the historical records to find out who owned this land in 1920.

When you use 'records' in the context of music, it is almost always a noun. You might say, 'I have a collection of jazz records.' Here, 'records' is the direct object of the verb 'have.' It is also common to use it in prepositional phrases, such as 'on records' or 'from records.' For example, 'Many classic performances are only available on old records.' This highlights the physical nature of the medium. In sports, 'records' is frequently paired with verbs like 'set,' 'hold,' or 'shatter.' An athlete 'sets a record' (singular) or 'holds multiple records' (plural). The nuance here is that the record is a specific achievement that has been documented and recognized by an official body.

As a Third-Person Verb: When 'records' is a verb, it describes the action of documenting or capturing. It follows a singular subject and often takes a direct object.

The sensor records the humidity levels and sends the data to the main computer.

The verb 'records' is also used in the context of media production. A singer 'records' a song in a studio. A journalist 'records' an interview on their phone. In these instances, the word implies the transformation of a live event into a stored format. It is also used metaphorically to describe how the mind or history 'records' events. For example, 'History records him as a great leader.' This usage suggests that the person's actions were so significant that they have become a permanent part of the historical narrative. When using the verb, pay attention to the tense; 'records' is present tense, while 'recorded' is past tense and 'recording' is the continuous form.

She records her daily expenses in a small notebook to stay on budget.

Common Phrasal Usage: 'Off the record' is a common idiom meaning that the information shared should not be officially reported or attributed to the speaker.

The politician spoke off the records about the upcoming policy changes.

Finally, consider the use of 'records' in technical or scientific contexts. In computer science, a 'record' (singular) is a basic data structure, and 'records' (plural) refers to a collection of these structures in a database. In this setting, you might hear phrases like 'fetching records' or 'updating records.' This highlights the word's role in the organization of information. Whether you are talking about a physical filing cabinet or a cloud-based SQL database, 'records' is the standard term for the individual units of information being stored. Mastering the use of this word in its various forms will greatly enhance your ability to communicate about data, history, and achievement in English.

The database records every transaction to prevent fraud and ensure accuracy.

The word records is ubiquitous, appearing in a wide range of environments from the highly formal to the very casual. In a professional or administrative setting, you will hear it constantly. At a doctor's office, the receptionist might ask to 'update your medical records.' In a corporate environment, managers discuss 'financial records' or 'employment records.' In these contexts, the word carries a weight of authority and permanence. It implies that the information is not just temporary but is being kept for future reference, legal compliance, or historical analysis. When you hear 'records' in these places, it usually refers to the noun form, specifically meaning documented data.

In the News and Media: News anchors frequently use 'records' when reporting on weather or sports. You might hear, 'Today's temperature broke all previous records,' or 'The team has a losing record this season.'

The athlete is aiming to break the world records for the 100-meter dash this summer.

In the world of music and entertainment, 'records' takes on a different flavor. You will hear it in record stores (which still exist and are thriving), in documentaries about famous bands, and in conversations between audiophiles. A DJ might talk about 'spinning records,' or a collector might boast about their 'rare records.' In this context, the word is synonymous with vinyl LPs. It evokes a sense of history and physical connection to music that digital files lack. You might also hear the verb form in this environment, as in 'The band records their new album next month.' Here, the focus is on the creative process of capturing sound in a studio.

In Legal and Government Settings: Lawyers and judges use 'records' to refer to the official transcript of a trial or the documented evidence. 'Public records' are documents available for anyone to see.

The court records show that the defendant was not in the city at the time of the crime.

You will also encounter 'records' in academic and scientific discussions. Researchers talk about 'fossil records' to describe the history of life on Earth preserved in stone. Historians examine 'archival records' to piece together the events of the past. In these fields, 'records' are the primary evidence used to build theories and understand the world. The word implies a level of objectivity and factuality. When a scientist says, 'The data records a significant increase in temperature,' they are using the verb form to describe an empirical observation. This highlights how the word is used to bridge the gap between an event and our knowledge of it.

The geologist studied the rock layers, which serve as records of the Earth's ancient climate.

In Daily Conversation: People use 'records' informally to talk about their personal history or habits. 'I have a record of always being late' or 'She records every episode of that show.'

He records his workouts in an app to track his progress over time.

Finally, the digital world has given 'records' a new home. In software development, 'database records' are the individual rows of data in a table. If you work in tech, you will hear this word daily. 'We need to migrate the records to the new server' or 'The system records user activity for security audits.' This usage reinforces the idea of 'records' as the fundamental units of information. Whether it is a physical piece of vinyl, a line in a ledger, or a row in a database, 'records' are how we keep track of our world. Hearing this word should immediately signal to you that something is being documented, preserved, or measured against a standard.

The smart meter records electricity usage in real-time to help homeowners save energy.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with records is related to word stress. As mentioned, the noun and verb are pronounced differently. If you say 'I need to re-CORD the data' but stress the first syllable (RE-cord), it sounds like you are saying the noun. While native speakers will usually understand you from context, getting the stress right is crucial for sounding natural. Another common error is confusing 'records' with 'reports.' While they are related, a 'record' is the raw data or the official document itself, whereas a 'report' is an analysis or a summary of that data. You keep records, but you write reports based on those records.

Stress Placement: Noun: RE-cords (Stress on the first syllable). Verb: re-CORDS (Stress on the second syllable). Mixing these up is the #1 mistake.

Incorrect: He RE-cords the music. Correct: He re-CORDS the music.

Another mistake involves the pluralization of the word. Some learners use 'records' when they should use the singular 'record.' For example, if an athlete breaks one specific achievement, they break a 'record.' If they break several, they break 'records.' Conversely, some people use 'record' as an uncountable noun, saying 'I have much record,' which is incorrect. 'Record' is a countable noun, so you must use 'a record,' 'some records,' or 'many records.' Additionally, in the context of music, 'records' specifically refers to vinyl. You wouldn't usually call a collection of CDs or digital files 'records' unless you are using the term very loosely to mean 'albums.'

Confusion with 'Files': A 'file' is a container (physical or digital) that holds 'records.' You might open a file to look at the records inside it.

Don't say: 'I put the record in the record.' Say: 'I put the records in the file.'

Learners also struggle with the verb 'records' versus 'is recording.' If you say 'The machine records the data,' you are talking about a habitual or permanent action. If you say 'The machine is recording the data,' you are talking about what is happening right now. Using the simple present 'records' for a temporary current action is a common grammatical slip. Furthermore, be careful with the preposition used with 'records.' You keep records 'of' something (e.g., records of sales), not 'for' or 'about' something in most formal contexts. Small prepositional errors can make your English sound less precise.

Incorrect: We have records about the weather. Correct: We have records of the weather.

Idiomatic Errors: The idiom 'off the record' is often misspoken as 'out of the record' or 'off records.' Stick to the standard phrase to avoid confusion.

He told me the secret off the record, so I can't tell you.

Lastly, avoid using 'records' when you mean 'recordings.' A 'recording' is the specific audio or video file created. 'Records' usually refers to the physical vinyl or the collection of data. If you say 'I listened to his records,' people think of vinyl. If you say 'I listened to his recordings,' they think of any audio format. This distinction is subtle but important for clarity, especially in the digital age where most 'recordings' are never turned into 'records.' By paying attention to these nuances, you can avoid the most common pitfalls and use 'records' with the confidence of a native speaker.

The police listened to the recordings of the phone calls to find evidence.

The word records has several synonyms depending on the context in which it is used. In an administrative or historical sense, words like 'archives,' 'logs,' 'registers,' and 'chronicles' are excellent alternatives. 'Archives' usually refers to a collection of historical records, often kept in a specific building. 'Logs' are chronological records of events, often used in shipping, computing, or daily activities. 'Registers' are official lists or records of names, items, or events, such as a 'marriage register.' 'Chronicles' are detailed historical accounts of events in the order they happened. Choosing the right word can add precision and variety to your writing.

Archives vs. Records: 'Records' are active documents used for daily business. 'Archives' are older records preserved for their historical value.

The national archives contain records dating back to the 18th century.

In the context of music, 'albums' or 'LPs' (Long Plays) are common synonyms for 'records.' While 'records' specifically implies vinyl, 'albums' is a broader term that includes CDs and digital collections. 'Vinyl' itself is often used as a collective noun for records. In sports, 'best' or 'pinnacle' can sometimes replace 'record,' though 'record' remains the most precise term for an officially timed or measured achievement. If you are talking about a person's history, you might use 'track record' or 'background.' For example, 'He has a great track record in sales' means he has a history of success. This is more descriptive than just saying 'He has good records.'

Logs and Ledgers: A 'log' is a simple list of events. A 'ledger' is a specific type of record used in accounting to track financial transactions.

The captain keeps a daily log of the ship's position and the weather conditions.

As a verb, 'records' can be replaced by 'documents,' 'notes,' 'registers,' or 'captures.' 'Documents' is a formal alternative often used in legal or professional contexts. 'Notes' is more informal and implies a briefer act of writing. 'Registers' is used when someone's name or an event is officially entered into a list. 'Captures' is frequently used in media, such as 'The camera captures the scene.' This suggests a more vivid or artistic recording. In scientific contexts, you might use 'logs' or 'tracks' as verbs. For example, 'The software tracks user behavior' is similar to 'The software records user behavior' but implies a continuous monitoring process.

The historian documents the oral traditions of the tribe to ensure they aren't lost.

Register vs. Record (Verb): To 'register' often means to officially sign up or to show a feeling. To 'record' means to store information for the future.

His face registered surprise when he heard the news, though he didn't say a word.

Finally, consider the word 'data.' In the modern world, 'records' and 'data' are often used interchangeably, but 'data' is usually uncountable and refers to the information itself, while 'records' refers to the structured units of that information. You might analyze data to create records. Understanding these subtle differences will help you choose the most appropriate word for your specific situation, making your English more precise and sophisticated. Whether you are writing a formal report, a personal blog, or a technical manual, having a range of alternatives for 'records' at your disposal is a valuable linguistic asset.

The researchers collected vast amounts of data before compiling their final records.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

Because 'cor' means heart, the word 'records' literally suggests that we are keeping things 'in our hearts' to remember them. This is why we still say we learn things 'by heart'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈrek.ɔːdz/ (noun), /rɪˈkɔːdz/ (verb)

US /ˈrek.ɚdz/ (noun), /rɪˈkɔːrdz/ (verb)

Noun: First syllable (RE-cords). Verb: Second syllable (re-CORDS).

Rhymes With

Checkboards Deckboards Neckwards Awards (for verb) Affords (for verb) Chords Boards Lords

Common Errors

Using noun stress for the verb.
Using verb stress for the noun.
Pronouncing the 's' as a sharp 's' instead of a 'z' sound.
Confusing the 'o' sound in the second syllable (it's more like 'aw' or 'or').
Dropping the 'd' sound before the 's'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to understand in context, but technical texts can be dense.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of noun/verb agreement and specific collocations.

Speaking 5/5

The stress shift between noun and verb is a significant challenge for learners.

Listening 4/5

Differentiating the noun and verb by sound alone takes practice.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Write Save Music Information Best

Learn Next

Archive Documentation Achievement Transcript Database

Advanced

Chronicle Ledger Annals Provenance Metadata

Grammar to Know

Noun-Verb Heteronyms

RE-cord (noun) vs re-CORD (verb). Other examples include 'present' and 'object'.

Third Person Singular Agreement

He records (verb) the data. They record (verb) the data.

Countable Nouns

One record, two records. Use 'many' or 'few', not 'much' or 'little'.

Compound Adjectives

A record-breaking performance (Use a hyphen).

Prepositional Idioms

On the record, off the record (Always use 'the').

Examples by Level

I have many music records at home.

J'ai beaucoup de disques de musique à la maison.

Noun, plural.

The teacher records our names every day.

Le professeur enregistre nos noms chaque jour.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

She likes to listen to old records.

Elle aime écouter de vieux disques.

Noun, plural.

He records his voice on the phone.

Il enregistre sa voix sur le téléphone.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

We keep records of our homework.

Nous gardons des traces de nos devoirs.

Noun, plural.

The shop sells many records.

Le magasin vend beaucoup de disques.

Noun, plural.

My dad records the football game.

Mon père enregistre le match de football.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

Look at these old records!

Regarde ces vieux disques !

Noun, plural.

He broke two world records in swimming.

Il a battu deux records du monde en natation.

Noun, plural.

The camera records everything in the room.

La caméra enregistre tout dans la pièce.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The school keeps records of all students.

L'école garde des dossiers sur tous les élèves.

Noun, plural.

She records her thoughts in a diary.

Elle consigne ses pensées dans un journal.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

Are these records from the 1960s?

Ces disques datent-ils des années 1960 ?

Noun, plural.

The doctor looks at my medical records.

Le médecin regarde mon dossier médical.

Noun, plural.

The computer records the time you log in.

L'ordinateur enregistre l'heure à laquelle vous vous connectez.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

They have a record of all the sales.

Ils ont une trace de toutes les ventes.

Noun, singular (used as a collective).

The company must keep accurate financial records.

L'entreprise doit tenir des registres financiers précis.

Noun, plural.

The software records user activity automatically.

Le logiciel enregistre automatiquement l'activité de l'utilisateur.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

He has a clean driving record with no accidents.

Il a un dossier de conduite impeccable sans accidents.

Noun, singular.

The journalist records the interview for her article.

La journaliste enregistre l'entretien pour son article.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

These historical records are very fragile.

Ces documents historiques sont très fragiles.

Noun, plural.

The athlete records his training sessions every day.

L'athlète enregistre ses séances d'entraînement chaque jour.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

Public records are available at the city hall.

Les archives publiques sont disponibles à la mairie.

Noun, plural.

The band records their music in a professional studio.

Le groupe enregistre sa musique dans un studio professionnel.

Verb, 3rd person singular (collective noun subject).

The defendant's criminal records were presented in court.

Le casier judiciaire du prévenu a été présenté au tribunal.

Noun, plural.

The satellite records changes in the Earth's surface.

Le satellite enregistre les changements à la surface de la Terre.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

She has an impressive track record in marketing.

Elle a des antécédents impressionnants en marketing.

Noun, singular (idiomatic).

The device records data at high frequencies.

L'appareil enregistre des données à des fréquences élevées.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

For the record, I never agreed to those terms.

Pour que ce soit dit, je n'ai jamais accepté ces conditions.

Noun, singular (idiomatic phrase).

The museum archives contain many rare records.

Les archives du musée contiennent de nombreux documents rares.

Noun, plural.

The system records all transactions in a secure ledger.

Le système enregistre toutes les transactions dans un registre sécurisé.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The singer records her vocals separately from the band.

La chanteuse enregistre sa voix séparément du groupe.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The geological records indicate a period of rapid cooling.

Les données géologiques indiquent une période de refroidissement rapide.

Noun, plural.

The sensor records minute fluctuations in atmospheric pressure.

Le capteur enregistre d'infimes fluctuations de la pression atmosphérique.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The diplomat spoke off the record about the negotiations.

Le diplomate a parlé de manière officieuse des négociations.

Noun, singular (idiomatic phrase).

The software records metadata for every file created.

Le logiciel enregistre des métadonnées pour chaque fichier créé.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The archival records were meticulously digitized for posterity.

Les archives ont été méticuleusement numérisées pour la postérité.

Noun, plural.

The heart monitor records the patient's pulse continuously.

Le moniteur cardiaque enregistre le pouls du patient en continu.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The company's track record of innovation is unmatched.

Les antécédents d'innovation de l'entreprise sont inégalés.

Noun, singular (idiomatic).

The historian records the oral histories of the survivors.

L'historien consigne les récits oraux des survivants.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The fossil records provide a glimpse into prehistoric ecosystems.

Les registres fossiles offrent un aperçu des écosystèmes préhistoriques.

Noun, plural.

The algorithm records and analyzes user sentiment in real-time.

L'algorithme enregistre et analyse le sentiment des utilisateurs en temps réel.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The integrity of the public records is vital for legal transparency.

L'intégrité des archives publiques est vitale pour la transparence juridique.

Noun, plural.

The telescope records light from galaxies billions of years away.

Le télescope enregistre la lumière de galaxies situées à des milliards d'années-lumière.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The discrepancy in the financial records suggests systemic fraud.

L'écart dans les registres financiers suggère une fraude systémique.

Noun, plural.

The brain records sensory input through complex neural pathways.

Le cerveau enregistre les entrées sensorielles via des voies neuronales complexes.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

The historical record is often biased toward the victors.

Le récit historique est souvent biaisé en faveur des vainqueurs.

Noun, singular (abstract).

The seismograph records the intensity of the earthquake.

Le sismographe enregistre l'intensité du tremblement de terre.

Verb, 3rd person singular.

Common Collocations

Keep records

World records

Medical records

Financial records

Public records

Vinyl records

Criminal records

Track record

Historical records

Electronic records

Common Phrases

For the record

— Used to state something officially so that it is documented. It emphasizes that the speaker wants their position to be known.

For the record, I was against this plan from the start.

Off the record

— Information given that is not intended to be officially reported or made public. Common in journalism.

The senator spoke off the record about the scandal.

On the record

— Information given that can be officially reported and attributed to the speaker. The opposite of off the record.

The CEO's comments were made on the record during the press conference.

Set the record straight

— To correct a mistake or a misunderstanding by providing the true facts. It aims to clear up confusion.

I need to set the record straight about what happened at the party.

A matter of record

— Something that is officially documented and can be proven as a fact. It is not a matter of opinion.

His previous convictions are a matter of record.

Break a record

— To do something better, faster, or more than has ever been done before and officially documented.

She hopes to break the record for the longest marathon.

Hold a record

— To be the person who has achieved the best result that is currently documented in a specific field.

He still holds the record for the most goals in a single season.

Broken record

— A person who repeats the same thing over and over again in an annoying way. Like a damaged vinyl disc.

Stop telling me to clean my room; you sound like a broken record!

Track record

— The past achievements or performance of a person, organization, or system. It indicates future potential.

The investment firm has a solid track record of high returns.

Clean record

— A history (usually legal or professional) that contains no mistakes, crimes, or negative marks.

He was hired because he had a clean record and good references.

Often Confused With

records vs Reports

A record is the raw data; a report is the summary or analysis of that data.

records vs Recordings

Recordings are the audio/video files; records are usually vinyl or data sets.

records vs Files

A file is the container; a record is the specific piece of information inside.

Idioms & Expressions

"Sound like a broken record"

— To repeat the same thing over and over again to the point of being tedious. It refers to a scratched vinyl record that skips.

I know I sound like a broken record, but please remember to lock the door.

Informal

"For the record"

— So that the facts are known and documented, even if they don't change the current situation.

Just for the record, I did warn you about the rain.

Neutral

"Off the record"

— Not for publication or official documentation; confidential.

What I'm about to tell you is strictly off the record.

Neutral/Professional

"Set the record straight"

— To provide the correct information to fix a misunderstanding or a lie.

The actress went on TV to set the record straight about her divorce.

Neutral

"Go on record"

— To make a public or official statement about something.

The mayor has gone on record as supporting the new tax.

Formal

"A matter of record"

— Something that is officially documented and cannot be disputed.

The dates of the meetings are a matter of record.

Formal

"In record time"

— Faster than has ever been done before.

We finished the project in record time, thanks to the new software.

Neutral

"Track record"

— A person's or organization's past performance as an indicator of future success.

His track record in sales makes him the perfect candidate.

Neutral/Business

"Off the records"

— A common mistake for 'off the record', but sometimes used to mean 'away from official files'.

They kept some of the cash off the records.

Informal

"Record-breaking"

— Surpassing any previous achievement or amount.

The movie had a record-breaking opening weekend.

Neutral

Easily Confused

records vs Record

Singular vs. Plural.

Use 'record' for one specific achievement or disc. Use 'records' for multiple or for the general concept of documentation.

He broke the record. The records are in the office.

records vs Register

Both mean to document.

records vs Log

Both mean a chronological list.

A log is usually more informal or technical (like a captain's log). Records are more formal and permanent.

Check the ship's log. Check the medical records.

records vs Archive

Both refer to stored information.

Archives are specifically for old, historical records. Records can be current and active.

Search the archives. Update the records.

records vs Data

Both refer to information.

Data is uncountable and refers to the information itself. Records are the individual, structured units of that data.

The data is clear. We have 500 records.

Sentence Patterns

I have [number] records.

I have ten records.

He records [noun].

He records the video.

We keep records of [noun].

We keep records of our sales.

She holds the record for [gerund].

She holds the record for running the fastest.

For the record, [clause].

For the record, I was never informed of the change.

The records indicate that [clause].

The records indicate that the building was sold in 1950.

The [adjective] record of [noun] is [adjective].

The historical record of the event is highly contested.

[Noun] records [noun] in [noun].

The algorithm records user preferences in a centralized database.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

He record the song yesterday. → He recorded the song yesterday.
The verb must be in the past tense 'recorded' for an action that happened in the past.
I have much records in my room. → I have many records in my room.
'Records' is a countable noun, so you must use 'many' instead of 'much'.
For the records, I don't like pizza. → For the record, I don't like pizza.
The idiom is always singular: 'For the record'.
The machine RE-cords the data. → The machine re-CORDS the data.
The verb form should have the stress on the second syllable, not the first.
I need to check my medical record. → I need to check my medical records.
In a medical context, we almost always use the plural 'records' to refer to the whole file.

Tips

The Noun/Verb Rule

Always remember: Noun = RE-cord (like 'RED'). Verb = re-CORD (like 'REPORT'). This will help you sound much more like a native speaker.

Keep vs. Make

We usually 'keep' records (maintain them over time) but we 'make' a record (create a single entry). Use 'keep' for systems.

Vinyl vs. Records

In modern English, people often say 'I'm into vinyl' instead of 'I'm into records.' Both are correct, but 'vinyl' is very trendy.

For the Record

Use 'For the record' at the start of a sentence when you want to make your opinion very clear and official.

Countability

Don't say 'much records.' Say 'many records' or 'a lot of records' because it is a countable noun.

Medical Records

When talking to a doctor, always use the plural 'records.' It sounds more natural than saying 'my medical record.'

Breaking Records

When an athlete does something amazing, they 'set' a new record or 'break' an old one. They 'hold' it until someone else breaks it.

Track Record

Use 'track record' in job interviews to talk about your past successes. It sounds very professional and confident.

Database Records

In IT, remember that a 'record' is one row in a table. If you have 1000 rows, you have 1000 records.

Records vs. Reports

Remember: Records are the facts. Reports are what you write about the facts. Don't mix them up in business meetings!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

RE-cords (noun) are things you READ. re-CORDS (verb) are things you CREATE. Both help you REMEMBER.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant vinyl record that is actually a filing cabinet. Every song on the record is a different document.

Word Web

Music Sports Data History Vinyl Achievement Documentation Memory

Challenge

Try to use 'records' as a noun and a verb in the same sentence, like: 'The system records all the medical records.'

Word Origin

Derived from the Old French word 'recorder', which comes from the Latin 'recordari'. The Latin root 're-' means 'again' and 'cor' means 'heart'.

Original meaning: To bring back to the heart, which metaphorically meant 'to remember' or 'to call to mind'.

Indo-European (Latin -> Romance -> English).

Cultural Context

Be careful with 'criminal records' as it can be a sensitive topic for individuals. 'Medical records' are protected by strict privacy laws (like HIPAA in the US).

The 'Guinness World Records' is a household name. 'Vinyl records' are seen as a cool, retro hobby.

Guinness World Records (The book of achievements) Record Store Day (Annual event celebrating independent record stores) The 'Golden Record' on the Voyager spacecraft (Sent into space to represent Earth)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Medical

Patient records
Update records
Confidential records
Access records

Sports

World records
Break a record
Olympic records
Hold a record

Music

Vinyl records
Record label
Play records
Record a song

Business

Financial records
Keep records
Employment records
Audit records

Legal

Public records
Court records
Criminal records
For the record

Conversation Starters

"Do you still listen to vinyl records, or do you prefer streaming?"

"What is the most impressive world record you've ever heard of?"

"How does your company keep its records organized?"

"Have you ever tried to break a record in something?"

"Do you think digital records are safer than paper records?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a music record that changed your life.

Describe a time you had to set the record straight about a misunderstanding.

If you could break any world record, which one would it be and why?

How do you record your daily life? Do you use a diary, photos, or social media?

Reflect on the importance of historical records in understanding your culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'record' can be singular when referring to one specific achievement or one vinyl disc. However, in the context of documentation (like 'medical records'), it is almost always plural.

Look at the sentence structure. If it follows 'the', 'my', or 'some', it's a noun. If it follows a subject like 'he' or 'she' and describes an action, it's a verb.

Strictly speaking, no. 'Records' usually refers to vinyl. However, in some contexts, people use it loosely to mean any physical music format, but 'albums' is better for CDs.

It means that the information being shared is private and should not be officially reported or quoted. It is very common in journalism and business.

It is a person's or company's history of performance. For example, if a student always gets A's, they have a 'track record' of academic success.

Both are correct and very common. 'Break' is slightly more formal and frequently used in sports news.

This is a common feature in English called 'initial-stress derivation.' Many words shift stress to the first syllable for nouns and the second for verbs.

Yes, absolutely. In computer science, a 'record' is a basic unit of data in a database. 'Records' refers to the collection of these units.

These are documents that are not confidential and can be viewed by any member of the public, such as birth certificates or land ownership documents.

It means someone is repeating the same thing over and over again in a way that is annoying to others.