behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf 

-ˈhäf,

bē-

: interest, benefit

also : support, defense

argued in his behalf

On Behalf of vs. in Behalf of: Usage Guide

A body of opinion favors in with the "interest, benefit" sense of behalf and on with the "support, defense" sense. This distinction has been observed by some writers but overall has never had a sound basis in actual usage. In current British use, on behalf (of) has replaced in behalf (of); both are still used in American English, but the distinction is frequently not observed.

Phrases

on behalf of or in behalf of

: in the interest of

also : as a representative of

I wrote the letter on behalf of my client.

Examples of behalf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The two met in Washington, D.C., at the Congressional Black Caucus, said Lee, clarifying that the event was screening a trailer for his film Malcolm X. Lewis Lee went on behalf of her father, who was the treasurer of Philip Morris at the time. —Charna Flam, Peoplemag, 15 May 2024

The online poll of 600 likely voters was conducted by Aspect Strategic between April 30 and May 2 on behalf of the Colorado Education Association; the results were weighted to reflect likely turnout in November and had a margin of error of plus or minus 4 percentage points. —Nick Coltrain, The Denver Post, 15 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from by + half half, side

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing behalf

• in behalf of
• in behalf of someone
• in someone's behalf
• on behalf of
• on behalf of someone
• on someone's behalf

Kids Definition

behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf 

-ˈhȧf

: useful aid : support

spoke in my behalf