What does it mean to "recant" a statement?

To "recant" a statement means to retract or withdraw a previous statement. This term is often used in legal and academic contexts where an individual acknowledges that their prior words or assertions are no longer valid or true. Recanting usually involves a formal process where the person states that they no longer hold the views they previously expressed or that the information they provided is inaccurate. This action may occur in various situations, such as when new evidence emerges, an error is recognized, or external pressures influence the individual’s perspective.

Understanding this term is important for anyone involved in legal transcription or documentation, as clarity regarding a person's stance on previous statements is crucial in maintaining the integrity of recorded information.