Transactional language is language which is used to make a transaction and which has a result. It can be compared with interactional language, which is used to maintain relationships.

Example
Learners in exams are often required to write a transactional letter, which has a clear objective, e.g. asking for a refund or for information, or making a complaint.

In the classroom
Transactional language is often taught more than interactional language, as it involves shorter turns, simpler and more predictable language, and can have a measurable result.

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