11.04.2012

“In behalf of” vs. “on behalf of”

Q: Which is proper, “on behalf of” or “in behalf of”?
A: Both expressions are correct, but they mean slightly different things.
“In behalf of” means “for the benefit of” or “in the interest of.”
“On behalf of” means “in place of” or “as the agent of.”
So I might give a donation, “on behalf of” my gardening club, to be used “in behalf of” tree restoration in the park.