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

Bill Hader has some big news on behalf of Criterion: The famed Criterion Closet is going on a nationwide road trip. —Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 12 Sep. 2024

Angela Cardon will oversee on behalf of Wayfarer Studios and Imene Meziane from Wayfarer Studios executed the deal. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 12 Sep. 2024

Hammad, who is nonverbal, has people who raised their voice on his behalf, pleading his case to the relevant authorities more urgently as every day went by. —Camilla Alcini, ABC News, 12 Sep. 2024

The crew will spend five days in orbit testing space technology on behalf of SpaceX that could prove crucial as NASA and other space agencies set their sights on destinations like Mars. —Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 11 Sep. 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