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behalf
in (someone's) behalf
For the benefit, interest, or support of someone; as an agent, representative, or in place of someone. Our lawyer will be telephoning the department tomorrow in our behalf, to ensure our application goes through as planned. This decision is in your behalf, so don't act so ungrateful!
on (someone's) behalf
For the benefit, interest, or support of someone; as an agent, representative, or in place of someone. Our lawyer will be telephoning the department tomorrow on our behalf to ensure our application goes through as planned. This decision is on your behalf, so don't act so ungrateful!
in behalf of someone
and in someone's behalf; on behalf of someone; on someone's behalf; in someone's name[doing something] as someone's agent; [doing something] in place of someone; for the benefit of someone. I'm writing in behalf of Mr. Smith, who has applied for a job with your company. I'm calling on behalf of my client, who wishes to complain about your actions. I'm calling in her behalf. I'm acting on your behalf.
on behalf of somebody
also in behalf of somebody for the benefit or support of someone A team of lawyers sued the company on behalf of the workers who lost their jobs.
take up the cudgels for somebody/something
(British & Australian) also take up the cudgels on behalf of somebody/something (British & Australian) to argue strongly in support of someone or something
Usage notes: A cudgel is a short, heavy stick which is used as a weapon.
Relatives have taken up the cudgels for two British women accused of murder. (
British & Australian)
in behalf of
Also, on behalf of.
1. For someone else, as someone's agent or representative. For example, In behalf of the board, I want to thank you for your help, or Joan was speaking on behalf of the entire staff. [c. 1300]
2. For someone's benefit or interest, as in He was collecting the dues in my behalf. [Late 1500s] Some authorities insist that in behalf of be used only to mean "for someone's benefit" and on behalf of only to mean "as someone's agent." In practice, however, the terms are so often used interchangeably that this distinction no longer has a basis.