on behalf of — as the representative of someone or in the interest of someone
Part of speech: PREPOSITION
Definition: as the representative of someone or in the interest of someone
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɑːn bɪˈhæf ʌv/
Example Sentences
- The lawyer accepted the bizarre award on behalf of his client who was too embarrassed to show up.
- I would like to thank everyone on behalf of our team for this achievement.
- The cat's owner apologized on behalf of Mr. Whiskers for eating the neighbor's fish.
on behalf of
PREPOSITION[/ɑːn bɪˈhæf ʌv/]
as the representative of someone or in the interest of someone
The lawyer spoke on behalf of her silent client in the courtroom.
Speaking on behalf of clients with staff who softly laugh
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase emerged in Middle English, with 'behalf' derived from the compound 'by + half', originally meaning to entrust one's interests or portion to another person. The expression evolved to denote acting or speaking as a representative or proxy for someone else.
Breakdown
on (preposition, indicating position/state) + behalf (from by + half, meaning one's interests or side) + of (preposition, indicating relationship or association).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The lawyer accepted the bizarre award on behalf of his client who was too embarrassed to show up.”
“I would like to thank everyone on behalf of our team for this achievement.”
“The cat's owner apologized on behalf of Mr. Whiskers for eating the neighbor's fish.”
“The ambassador spoke on behalf of his country at the United Nations.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.