Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
on behalf of
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"on behalf of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is representing another person or entity. For example, "I am writing this letter on behalf of the school board."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
57 human-written examples
On behalf of his daughter, he sued.
News & Media
"on behalf of the Bolivian people".
News & Media
He acquires properties on behalf of investors.
News & Media
Rochdale typically trades on behalf of clients.
News & Media
We deëmphasized becoming on behalf of being.
News & Media
On behalf of Robyn.
Academia
Ephraim Poloner, On behalf of the Ann Harris Family.
News & Media
Published by ElsevieiLtd on behalf of COSPAR.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
3 human-written examples
Published by Elsevier Science Ltd on behalf of COSPAR.
Science
Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of COSPAR.
Science
**On behalf of the patient.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "on behalf of" when you are officially representing someone or an organization. It adds a level of formality and authority to your statement.
Common error
Avoid using "on behalf of" when you're acting solely for yourself. It's more appropriate to say "for myself" or "personally" in such cases.
Linguistic Context
The phrase "on behalf of" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing who or what is being represented. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase serves to indicate that an action is being carried out by someone as a representative of another party, whether it's an individual, a group, or an organization.
Frequent in
News & Media
35%
Academia
30%
Science
20%
Less common in
Formal & Business
10%
Wiki
3%
Reference
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "on behalf of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI. It indicates that someone is representing another individual or entity. Its primary function is to denote representation or agency, typically in formal and professional contexts. As observed in Ludwig, "on behalf of" is prevalent in news, academic, and scientific writing. To ensure correct usage, remember to use it when you are acting as an official representative and avoid using it for personal actions. Alternatives include "representing" or "in the name of", offering flexibility while maintaining clarity.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
in the name of
Indicates acting with the authority or representation of someone.
representing
Implies standing in for or acting as an agent of someone.
as a representative of
More formal way to indicate acting on someone's behalf.
for
A simpler alternative that can sometimes replace "on behalf of" depending on the context.
acting for
Directly states that someone is performing an action for another.
as proxy for
More formal and legalistic, indicating authorized substitution.
in place of
Suggests substitution or acting instead of someone.
for the benefit of
Highlights the advantage or good intended for the other party.
as an advocate for
Emphasizes supporting or defending someone's interests.
speaking for
Focuses specifically on voicing the opinions or views of another.
FAQs
How to use "on behalf of" in a sentence?
Use "on behalf of" to indicate that you are speaking or acting as a representative of someone else. For example, "I am writing "on behalf of" the entire team."
What can I say instead of "on behalf of"?
You can use alternatives like "representing", "in the name of", or "as a representative of" depending on the context.
Which is correct, "on behalf of" or "in behalf of"?
"On behalf of" is the correct and more common usage. "In behalf of" generally means 'for the benefit of', which is a different meaning.
What's the difference between "on behalf of" and "for"?
"On behalf of" implies representation or acting as an agent, while "for" can simply mean 'intended for' or 'directed to'. For example, "This gift is "for you"" versus "I'm speaking "on behalf of" the company."
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