behalf

[bih-haf, -hahf]

behalf

/ bɪˈhɑːf /

noun

1. interest, part, benefit, or respect (only in the phrases on ( someone's ) behalf , on or US and Canadian in behalf of , in this ( or that ) behalf )

Usage

On behalf of is sometimes wrongly used where on the part of is intended. The distinction is that on behalf of someone means `for someone's benefit' or `representing someone', while on the part of someone can be roughly paraphrased as `by someone'. So, the following example is incorrect: another act of apparent negligence, this time not on behalf of the company itself, but on behalf of its banker , when what was meant was there was negligence by the company's banker

Word History and Origins

Origin of behalf¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; Middle English bihalve, earlier as adverb and preposition with the sense “near(by),” originally, as prepositional phrase bi halve “on one side”; be-, by, half

Word History and Origins

Origin of behalf¹

Old English be halfe from be by + halfe side; compare Old Norse af halfu

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. in / on behalf of, as a representative of or a proxy for.

   On behalf of my colleagues, I address you tonight.

2. in / on someone's behalf, in the interest or aid of (someone).

   He interceded in my behalf.

see in behalf of.

Example Sentences

His brother released a statement later in the day on behalf of the Sanchez family.

From Los Angeles Times

He apologised to both families on behalf of the hospital.

From BBC

Imran Khan KC, Baroness Lawrence's solicitor, read a statement on her behalf, while Norris watched on from prison.

From BBC

There has been speculation about the size of the threat AI poses to high street and online travel agents - with AI booking agents now capable of taking actions on behalf of customers.

From BBC

Traditionally every woman has a 'wali', a male guardian who makes decisions on her behalf.

From BBC

Related Words

• favor 
• side