What defines a journal entry in accounting?

A journal entry in accounting is defined as a detailed record of a transaction that specifies which accounts are affected and the amounts involved. Each journal entry records the complete information for a financial transaction, including the date, accounts debited and credited, and the amounts. This level of detail is crucial for maintaining accurate financial records and ensures that the accounting equation (Assets = Liabilities + Equity) remains in balance.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of a journal entry. For example, a summary of all financial transactions for the year represents a broader financial report rather than the specific details of individual transactions. Similarly, a list of all liabilities owed provides insight into a company's obligations but does not pertain to the transaction-level details recorded in a journal entry. Lastly, a report detailing cash inflows and outflows refers to cash flow statements, which summarize a company's cash movements rather than matching specific transactions to their corresponding accounts. Each of these alternatives emphasizes different aspects of accounting but fails to define a journal entry accurately.