Word
transactional
Phoneticstrans·ac·tion·al
UK/tɹænsˈækʃənəl/
Definition
adj. describing a relationship where people only care about getting what they want, not about being friends or helping each other. It is like a business deal where you only care about the result, not the person.
adj. relating to or characterized by a focus on the exchange of goods or services for mutual benefit, without emotional investment or long-term commitment. Often used to describe social interactions that are goal-oriented and utilitarian.
Examples
“The relationship between the two companies is purely transactional.”
“In a highly competitive market, many business partnerships remain transactional, with both sides only interested in the immediate profit.”
“Sociologists often distinguish between transactional and relational communication, noting that the former focuses on the exchange of information to complete a task, while the latter builds and maintains social bonds.”
Examples
simple
“The relationship between the two companies is purely transactional.”
contextual
“In a highly competitive market, many business partnerships remain transactional, with both sides only interested in the immediate profit.”
complex
“Sociologists often distinguish between transactional and relational communication, noting that the former focuses on the exchange of information to complete a task, while the latter builds and maintains social bonds.”
Real-World Examples
“She also emphasizes that one can, in turn, be a mentor or anchor for someone else and make it a reciprocal social relationship rather than a transactional one.” “Experts warn that President Trump's transactional approach to an alliance will erode political trust.” Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/transactional