Transactional language is language which is used to make a transaction and which has a result.

A group of students sitting together in a cafe

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.

See also:
https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/article/interactional

Further links:
https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/article/teaching-speaking-skills-1
https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/article/practice-communicative-teaching

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