totalitaire
/tɔ.ta.li.tɛʁ/
The English word "totalitarian" is translated into French as totalitaire.
The adjective totalitaire is used to describe things related to a system of government.
Meaning: related to the system of government (adj)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Québec, one might occasionally use the phrase régime totalitariste to describe a totalitarian regime.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective totalitaire is invariable in gender, meaning the same form is used for both masculine and feminine nouns, but it takes an 's' in the plural.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables and is pronounced /tɔ.ta.li.tɛʁ/.
Did you know?
- In some contexts, the word totalitaire can be used hyperbolically in French to describe an overbearing boss or a strict parent, moving far beyond its political definition.
- French speakers use totalitaire to distinguish between autoritaire (authoritarian) and totalitaire, as the latter implies a total absorption of society that the former does not.
- French scholars frequently use the phrase le totalitarisme when referencing the works of Hannah Arendt, whose theories on the subject heavily influenced how the word is taught in French universities.
Examples in context
- Le régime en place est considéré comme totalitaire.The current regime is considered totalitarian.
- Ce dirigeant est un despote qui impose un régime totalitaire.This leader is a despot who enforces a totalitarian regime.
- Elle déteste les systèmes totalitaires.She hates totalitarian systems.
- Il étudie l'histoire des États totalitaires.He studies the history of totalitarian states.
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are discussing a history documentary in a cafe.
- NathanCe documentaire est très sombre.This documentary is very dark.
- ManonOui, il décrit un régime totalitaire.Yes, it describes a totalitarian regime.
- NathanC'est vraiment effrayant à regarder.It is really scary to watch.
- ManonLa réalité de l'histoire est dure.The reality of history is harsh.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “totalitarian” translations and entries totalitaire, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
