What is typically meant by stating that a discussion took place “on the record”?

Stating that a discussion took place “on the record” means that it is documented and is recognized as part of the official record. This designation holds significant importance in legal and official contexts, as it implies that the information shared during the discussion is available for review and can be cited later, forming part of the official proceedings. This kind of record ensures transparency and accountability in legal processes, making it essential for maintaining a formal and verifiable narrative of discussions, decisions, or testimonies.

In contrast, the other options present concepts that do not align with the established notion of being "on the record." For instance, keeping a discussion confidential suggests that it is not meant for disclosure, while referring to non-judicial matters or jury deliberation introduces contexts that typically do not create an official record accessible for public scrutiny. Thus, recognizing a discussion as “on the record” strictly pertains to its inclusion in an official documentation framework, confirming the accurate portrayal of events or statements made during that discussion.