English Reference
noun

contractual

n.
US /kənˈtɹæktʃuəɫ/ UK /kəntɹˈæktʃuːəl/ con·trac·tu·al

  1. 01 C1 Advanced TechnicalFormal

    a person who is hired to work for a short time or for one specific project.

    a worker hired on a temporary or project-based contract rather than as a permanent staff member.

    Simple

    The office hired several contractuals to help finish the project by the end of the month.

    In context

    The firm relies heavily on contractuals during the peak season to manage the increased workload without committing to long-term salary costs.

  2. 02 C2 Proficiency TechnicalFormal Law

    a charge or a formal document that explains the rules between two groups or countries.

    a specific charge applied through a service contract or a document detailing the relationship between two bodies.

    Simple

    The hospital had to pay a contractual to the insurance provider for the extra services.

    In context

    The bilateral contractual outlined the specific trade requirements and environmental standards both nations were expected to uphold.

It is also seeking damages from DB Cargo UK, claiming that the latter "breached a contractual duty to ensure that reasonable care was taken" in maintaining the wagon.

BBC News· 24 Aug 2026

It also said the HS1 network should be able to support the "substantial additional services" provided that "operational, contractual, and co-ordination risks are properly controlled".

BBC News· 17 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated