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

In 2021, the Justice Department charged three North Korean computer programmers, members of the country's military intelligence agency, in connection with a series of global cyberattacks allegedly conducted on behalf of the regime. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

The Taylors’ gift will be used in several ways on behalf of the department, which is ranked fifth nationally for research funding from the National Institutes of Health. —Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

Earlier this week, Israeli police arrested a 33-year-old Israeli citizen from the north who allegedly carried out tasks on behalf of Iran in exchange for thousands of dollars. —Zeena Saifi, CNN, 13 Dec. 2024

His cousin also declined to speak on behalf of the family. —Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 13 Dec. 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 someone
• in someone's behalf
• on behalf of someone
• on someone's behalf

Kids Definition

behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf 

-ˈhȧf

: useful aid : support

spoke in my behalf