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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.
Examples of behalf in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Leftism thus constitutes an ongoing search for new causes to fight on behalf of, in a way that mobilizes adherents and creates solidarity among them.
—
Bradley Gitz, Arkansas Online, 23 Mar. 2026
The company, run by two former Israeli intelligence agents, has been involved in a number of controversies over the years, including an undercover operation on behalf of the film mogul Harvey Weinstein to discredit his accusers.
—ABC News, 22 Mar. 2026
The petition for annexation was submitted to Castle Pines by VT Crowfoot Valley Landco LLC on behalf of nine private landowners.
—Olivia Young, CBS News, 21 Mar. 2026
Today’s ruling reaffirms the right of The Times and other independent media to continue to ask questions on the public’s behalf.
—Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 21 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for behalf
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Bradley Gitz, Arkansas Online, 23 Mar. 2026
The company, run by two former Israeli intelligence agents, has been involved in a number of controversies over the years, including an undercover operation on behalf of the film mogul Harvey Weinstein to discredit his accusers.
—ABC News, 22 Mar. 2026
The petition for annexation was submitted to Castle Pines by VT Crowfoot Valley Landco LLC on behalf of nine private landowners.
—Olivia Young, CBS News, 21 Mar. 2026
Today’s ruling reaffirms the right of The Times and other independent media to continue to ask questions on the public’s behalf.
—Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 21 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for behalf
Cite this Entry
“Behalf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behalf. Accessed 26 Mar. 2026.
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