English Reference
Adjective

transactional

adj.
C1 Advanced UK /tɹænsˈækʃənəl/ trans·ac·tion·al Psychology Sociology

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.


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.

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.

Phys.org· 18 Aug 2026

Experts warn that President Trump's transactional approach to an alliance will erode political trust.

NPR· 21 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated