contractual
kun-TRAK-choo-ul
/kənˈtræktʃuəl/
Agreed in a contract; relating to a contract.
Focuses on the legal obligation rather than just a promise.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'contractus', meaning 'drawn together'. A contract literally 'pulls together' two parties into a single agreement.
Word relationships
- binding: Focuses on the fact that the agreement cannot be legally broken.
- stipulated: Refers to specific points mentioned within an agreement.
- non-binding: An agreement that has no legal force.
Commonly confused with
- voluntary: Voluntary is by choice; contractual is by legal requirement.
Word family
- contract (noun/verb): A written or spoken agreement.
- contractor (noun): A person or company that undertakes a contract.
Collocations
- contractual obligation
- contractual agreement
- contractual breach
Example sentences
- "The star quarterback has a contractual obligation to attend all promotional events." Player obligations.
- "The team was sued for a contractual breach after failing to pay the bonus." Legal disputes.
Memory hook
A CONTRACTual deal TRACTS (pulls) you into the rules. Pulled into an agreement.
When not to use
Don't use for casual agreements between friends.
Fun facts
- The word 'tractor' comes from the same root 'trahere', because it pulls heavy loads.
Related words
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