Unquotable

Describing something that is unsuitable or inappropriate to be quoted, typically due to its sensitive, offensive, or nonsensical nature. It refers to speech, writing, or other forms of expression that are best left unrecorded or unshared publicly. This can be because of the content's potential to cause offense, misinterpretation, or damage to the reputation of the speaker or the subject matter. The term often implies a level of privacy or confidentiality, suggesting that the information wasn't meant for widespread consumption. An 'unquotable' statement may be deemed unprofessional, irresponsible, or simply too obscure for a public forum.

Unquotable meaning with examples

• During the tense negotiations, several of the team leader's private asides were deemed utterly unquotable, containing harsh judgments on the opposing side's tactics. They were strictly for internal consumption, not for public record. Sharing them would have jeopardized the deal.
• The comedian's off-the-cuff remarks backstage, peppered with highly controversial opinions about political figures, were considered unquotable by the press. While funny, they were far too divisive to publish and were considered purely for entertainment.
• The investigative journalist received leaked documents containing potentially damaging information about a corporate executive, but one particular email contained such vulgar language that it was deemed unquotable and omitted from the published article.
• The witness's emotional testimony during the court proceedings was often raw and unfiltered. Certain statements, though revealing of personal anguish, were deemed unquotable by the judge due to their potentially prejudicial effect on the jury.
• While conducting interviews with the notoriously eccentric artist, the interviewer was given very detailed, highly personal insights into the artist's creative process; many observations, however, were unquotable due to their deeply intimate nature.