Behalf Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
behalf
[bษชหhษหf ]
Definitions
on behalf of
In the interest of; as a representative of. This phrase is commonly used in legal and formal contexts.
Synonyms
for the benefit of, in the name of.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| behalf |
Used when representing or speaking for someone else. Often used in formal or official contexts.
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| in the name of |
Used when invoking authority or stating who you represent, often in formal or serious situations. Can also be used in a more dramatic or emphatic context.
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| for the benefit of |
Used when indicating that something is done to help or advantage someone. Commonly used in contexts where the action is intended to have a positive impact on someone else.
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Examples of usage
- He spoke on behalf of the entire team at the award ceremony.
- The lawyer acted on behalf of her client during the trial.
behalf of
A person's interest or support. Used especially in the phrase 'on behalf of.'
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| behalf |
Use 'behalf' when you are representing or speaking for someone else, often in formal or official settings.
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| support |
Use 'support' to refer to help, encouragement, or approval in both personal and professional contexts.
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| backing |
Use 'backing' to refer to financial support or endorsement, usually in a business or political context.
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Examples of usage
- He donated money on behalf of the charity.
- She accepted the award on behalf of her colleagues.
behalf of
A side or part, typically in a conflict or dispute.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| behalf |
Used when representing or speaking for someone else, often in a formal or official capacity.
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| side |
Typically used to refer to one of multiple groups or perspectives in a conflict, argument, or discussion. It can also refer to a physical or metaphorical part of something larger.
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| party |
Usually refers to a person or group involved in a legal matter, contract, or business agreement. It is often used in formal or legal settings.
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Examples of usage
- The lawyer argued on behalf of the plaintiff in the court case.
- Both parties presented their behalf of the story to the mediator.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Contexts
- In legal settings, actions taken on someone's behalf can allow a person to make decisions or agreements.
- Power of attorney is often a document that allows one person to act on behalf of another, especially regarding finances or health decisions.
- Legal contracts often require signatures 'on behalf of' a company or individual when a representative executes agreements.
Cultural Use
- In many cultures, speaking on behalf of others reflects values of respect and familial duty.
- Movements advocating social justice often highlight speaking on behalf of marginalized communities, emphasizing the need for representation.
- The phrase 'on behalf of' is commonly used in speeches and written communication to express gratitude or announce comes from trusted figures.
Psychology
- Supporting someone elseโs interests or needs can strengthen social bonds and interpersonal relationships.
- Research suggests that voicing support on behalf of others can enhance feelings of empathy and cooperation within group settings.
- Representing others can lead to a phenomenon called 'collective agency', where groups feel empowered through a shared voice.
Literature
- Writers often use characters who act on behalf of others to explore themes of loyalty and betrayal.
- In many classic novels, protagonists frequently undertake tasks on behalf of family or friends, which drives the plot forward.
- The practice of narrating a story on behalf of a character allows authors to depict multiple perspectives, enriching the narrative.
Origin of 'behalf'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'behalf', meaning 'by the (the) half', originally used to mean 'on the side of'.
- It is a combination of the word 'be', meaning to be or exist, and 'half', suggesting a part of somethingโreflecting representation.
- Over time, its use evolved to denote acting for someone rather than just in favor of something.
The word 'behalf' originated from the Old English word 'behalve,' which meant 'by the side of' or 'near.' Over time, it evolved to its current usage to represent someone's interest or support. The term is commonly used in legal, formal, and diplomatic contexts to indicate representation or advocacy.