“On behalf of” is used when a person acts or speaks for another person or group, or does something for that party’s benefit or support. The phrase is especially useful in representative statements, where naming the represented party clearly prevents ambiguity.
ReviewedEvidence1 sourceSectionPhrases & Idioms
Quick answer
“On behalf of” means for someone’s benefit/support or as their representative. It is common when one person speaks or acts for another person, group, or organization.
Key details
Canonical FormOn Behalf Of
Core Meaningfor another person’s benefit or support, or while representing that person or group
Further guidance
History Boundary
This guide publishes the supported current meaning and usage boundary without making an unsupported absolute first-use or coinage claim.
Meaning
Use “on behalf of” when acting, speaking, or expressing something as a representative of another person or group, or for that party’s benefit or support.
Usage Boundary
Make the represented party clear when the sentence could otherwise leave readers unsure whose interests or voice are being represented.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
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