On behalf of... Which one is correct?

In the correct context they're both correct.

Hi Wilso,

I could not understand why (2) could be correct. Would you like to give me some examples which show how "on behalf of Piffka" can work properly in its context?

If Piffka is speaking on behalf of A2K moderators than it is Piffka who is talking - one of three things is true:

1) she has the authority to decide what the moderators (as a group) will say.
2) she is completely sure what they are going to say as a group
3) she is defending the interests of the moderators who cannot speak for themselves.

Not knowing the context, I would guess it was #1, but it may be #2.

If the A2K moderators are speaking on behalf of Piffka than it is the moderators who are talking. One of three things are true

1) The moderators have the authority to decide what Piffka will say.
2) The moderators are completely sure what Piffka will say.
3) The moderators are defending the interests of Piffka who can not speak for herself.

In this context I would think It was either #2 or #3 (no offense meant to Piffka or the moderators.).

Hi Ebrown,

Of course I could completely understand what you explained before I posted this thread. The context that got me confused is:


This message was auto-generated

Hi Robinson,

The Thread, Pterosaur Fossil & Evolution Theory you started was moved from English to Science & Mathematics most likely because you posted mistakenly in the wrong board section. If you feel that this is incorrect please respond to this message where the board moderator can assist you.

A2K Moderators on behalf of Piffka

===============================================
Now, inspired by you, I guess why the usage in this context is correct is because the message was auto-generated by machine or software. And the designer or programmer treated this machine as "A2K Moderators". Since Piffka moved that thread but she could not speak, so there was "A2K Moderators on behalf of Piffka" to speak for her.

Perhaps you got it.

But, I am not sure that the way this phrase is used in this email is correct. It is at least awkward. I would not follow this example

If being awkward, improve it please.