# behalf

/bɪˈhæf/ (US) · /bɪhˈɑːf/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/behalf
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. representing someone

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

acting as a representative for another person or a group.

For teachers: acting as the agent or representative of another party. In British English, 'on behalf of' covers both representation and benefit.

- The lawyer spoke on behalf of her client during the meeting.
- The class president accepted the award on behalf of the entire student body, thanking the faculty for their continued support.

Usage: Almost always used in the phrase 'on behalf of'.

Teaching tip: This is a high-frequency phrase in formal emails and speeches when one person speaks for a whole group.

### 2. for someone's benefit

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · American English

doing something to help someone or for their good.

For teachers: acting in the interest or for the benefit of someone else. In American English, 'in behalf of' is sometimes specifically reserved for this 'benefit' sense.

- A collection was started in behalf of the families who lost their homes.
- The foundation campaigned tirelessly in behalf of refugee children, ensuring they had access to legal counsel and medical care.

Usage: Often appears as 'in behalf of' in American legal or formal writing to mean 'for the benefit of'.

Teaching tip: Most learners only need 'on behalf of'. This 'benefit' distinction is subtle and primarily found in formal American prose.

## Examples

- I am writing to you on behalf of my client.
- The lawyer spoke on behalf of the family to thank the public for their support during the trial.
- While the CEO was unable to attend the summit, she sent a senior executive to negotiate on behalf of the firm's shareholders regarding the proposed merger.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.