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B2 adjective 14 min read

égalitaire

Examples
Explanation égalitaire in your Level:
At the A1 level, beginners are just starting to learn basic vocabulary to describe the world around them. While the word égalitaire is a bit complex for everyday basic conversation, it is helpful to understand the root word 'égal', which means equal. When you share a pizza with your friend and you both get exactly half, that is 'égal'. The word égalitaire describes a rule or a group where everyone gets the same thing and is treated exactly the same way. For example, if a teacher gives every single student the same amount of homework, that is an égalitaire rule. It is a big word, but it is very important in France because the country believes strongly that everyone should be equal. When you see this word in a sentence, it will usually come right after a noun, like 'une société égalitaire' (an equal society). Because it ends in an 'e', you do not have to worry about changing it for masculine or feminine words. You only need to add an 's' if you are talking about more than one thing, like 'des règles égalitaires' (equal rules). At this stage, you do not need to use this word all the time, but recognizing it will help you understand that French people value fairness and sharing equally. You can practice by thinking about simple things that are equal, like sharing toys or food, and knowing that the big idea behind sharing equally is what this word means. It is a good word to keep in your vocabulary notebook for when you start reading more French texts.
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At the A2 level, you are starting to express opinions and describe situations in more detail. You can use the word égalitaire to talk about fairness in your daily life, your school, or your workplace. This word means egalitarian, which is a fancy way of saying that a system treats everyone the same, without playing favorites. For instance, if you are talking about chores at home, and your parents make sure your brother and sister do the exact same amount of cleaning, you can describe that as 'une répartition égalitaire' (an equal sharing). In French culture, equality is a very big deal. You will see the word 'Égalité' on public buildings, and the adjective égalitaire is used to describe laws or rules that support this idea. When you are writing sentences, remember that adjectives in French usually go after the noun. So you say 'un système égalitaire', not 'un égalitaire système'. Also, remember that since the word already ends in an 'e', it stays exactly the same for both masculine and feminine nouns. If you want to say the opposite, you can use the word 'inégalitaire', which means unequal or unfair. Using words like this shows that your French is getting stronger and that you can talk about ideas, not just objects. You might use it when talking about why you like a certain teacher's rules or why you think a game is fair. It adds a level of maturity to your French conversations and helps you connect with the way French people think about society.
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At the B1 level, you are capable of discussing more abstract concepts, social issues, and current events. The word égalitaire becomes very useful here, as it allows you to express your opinions on politics, society, and fairness. It means egalitarian, referring to a belief or system where all people have equal rights and opportunities. You can use it to discuss topics like the gender pay gap, education, or healthcare. For example, you might say, 'Je pense que nous avons besoin d'une société plus égalitaire' (I think we need a more egalitarian society). This shows you can articulate complex thoughts about how the world should work. At this level, it is important to distinguish égalitaire from similar words like 'juste' (fair) or 'équitable' (equitable). While 'juste' is a general term for fairness, égalitaire specifically implies that everyone gets exactly the same treatment or share. You will frequently encounter this word in news articles, debates on television, and opinion pieces. Grammatically, you should be comfortable placing it after the noun and ensuring it agrees in number (adding an 's' for plural nouns). You can also use it with adverbs to add emphasis, such as 'profondément égalitaire' (deeply egalitarian) or 'strictement égalitaire' (strictly egalitarian). Using this vocabulary allows you to participate in classic French debates about social justice and the role of the state, which are common topics in B1 language exams and real-life conversations with native speakers. It demonstrates that you are moving beyond simple descriptions and engaging with the cultural values of the language you are learning.
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At the B2 level, your language skills allow you to construct detailed arguments and analyze complex societal structures. The adjective égalitaire is a cornerstone of advanced vocabulary for discussing sociology, politics, and economics in French. It describes policies, systems, or ideologies that actively promote equal rights and the elimination of hierarchies. You are expected to use it in sophisticated contexts, such as analyzing a government's tax policy: 'Cet impôt n'est pas très égalitaire car il pénalise les bas revenus' (This tax is not very egalitarian because it penalizes low incomes). At this stage, you must master the nuances between égalitaire (strict equality), équitable (fairness based on need), and paritaire (equal representation, especially concerning gender). Using the right term in the right context demonstrates a high level of linguistic precision. You should also be comfortable using its antonyms, like inégalitaire or élitiste, to create rhetorical contrast in your essays or oral presentations. The word is frequently found in academic texts, political manifestos, and serious journalism. When you read French newspapers like Le Monde, you will see how journalists use this word to evaluate social reforms. To sound natural, practice using collocations such as 'un modèle égalitaire' (an egalitarian model) or 'une vision égalitaire' (an egalitarian vision). Mastery of this word and its related concepts is essential for passing B2 exams, particularly in the speaking and writing sections where you must defend a viewpoint on social issues, proving you understand the deep-rooted French commitment to the principle of equality.
At the C1 level, your mastery of French allows you to engage with the language on a highly academic and philosophical level. The term égalitaire is no longer just a vocabulary word; it is a conceptual tool used to dissect historical movements, legal frameworks, and socio-economic theories. You are expected to use it effortlessly in debates, dissertations, and professional environments. At this level, you understand that an 'approche égalitaire' can sometimes conflict with an 'approche équitable', and you can articulate the philosophical differences between the two. For instance, you might argue that a strictly egalitarian education system risks ignoring the specific needs of disadvantaged students, thus requiring equitable interventions. You will encounter this word in literature, sociological studies, and constitutional law texts. You should be adept at using it in complex sentence structures, employing subjunctive clauses or conditional arguments. For example: 'Bien qu'il faille aspirer à une société égalitaire, il est utopique de croire que toutes les disparités puissent être effacées' (Although one must aspire to an egalitarian society, it is utopian to believe that all disparities can be erased). Furthermore, you understand the cultural resonance of the word in France, tracing its importance back to the Enlightenment and the French Revolution. You can discuss how the pursuit of an 'idéal égalitaire' shapes modern French policy, from labor laws to healthcare. Using this word with precision, alongside a rich vocabulary of synonyms and antonyms, demonstrates that your French is not only grammatically flawless but also culturally and intellectually profound.
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At the C2 level, you possess a near-native command of French, and your use of the word égalitaire reflects a deep understanding of its etymological, philosophical, and socio-political dimensions. You are capable of deconstructing the very concept of egalitarianism, critiquing its application in various historical and modern contexts. You can engage in rigorous intellectual discourse, referencing thinkers like Rousseau or Bourdieu, to discuss the limitations or the necessity of 'le mythe égalitaire' (the egalitarian myth) in republican ideology. At this ultimate level of proficiency, you manipulate the language with extreme subtlety. You might explore the paradoxes inherent in egalitarian policies, arguing how 'une volonté farouchement égalitaire peut parfois engendrer de nouvelles formes de ségrégation' (a fiercely egalitarian will can sometimes generate new forms of segregation). You understand that the word is heavily loaded with ideological weight and can recognize when it is being used rhetorically by politicians to appeal to the French collective conscience. Your vocabulary is expansive, allowing you to seamlessly transition between related concepts such as l'égalitarisme (the ideology of egalitarianism), l'équité (equity), and l'isonomie (equality before the law). In writing, your use of the term is embedded in highly sophisticated, nuanced paragraphs that demonstrate a total mastery of French syntax, tone, and register. You do not merely use the word to describe a situation; you use it to challenge assumptions, provoke thought, and contribute original perspectives to complex debates regarding the structure and future of human societies.
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Examples
To truly understand the French word égalitaire, one must first look at its profound roots in the very foundation of modern French society and its continuous evolution in contemporary discourse. The term égalitaire is an adjective that translates to egalitarian in English. It describes a system, a society, a policy, or a mindset that is based on the fundamental principle that all people are inherently equal and therefore deserve equal rights, equal opportunities, and equal treatment under the law and in everyday life. When people use this word, they are often discussing social justice, political frameworks, or economic distributions that aim to eliminate disparities and hierarchies among different groups of individuals. In daily conversations, as well as in formal political debates, the concept of being égalitaire is frequently invoked to measure the fairness of a particular situation or institution.
Societal Context
In a societal context, an egalitarian approach seeks to dismantle systemic barriers that prevent marginalized groups from achieving parity with more privileged demographics.

La révolution a cherché à établir une société véritablement égalitaire.

The usage of this adjective is not limited to grand political revolutions or historical analyses; it is highly relevant in modern workplaces, educational systems, and family dynamics. For example, when a company implements a salary grid that ensures men and women are paid the exact same amount for the same work, that policy is described as égalitaire. Similarly, parents who divide household chores equally between their sons and daughters without regard to traditional gender roles are applying an égalitaire educational method.
Economic Context
Economically, egalitarian policies often involve wealth redistribution, progressive taxation, and social welfare programs designed to reduce the wealth gap.

Le partage des bénéfices au sein de cette coopérative est strictement égalitaire.

Furthermore, the distinction between what is merely equal (égal) and what promotes the ideology of equality (égalitaire) is crucial. While 'égal' refers to mathematical or strict equivalence, 'égalitaire' encompasses the philosophical and moral commitment to equality. This makes it a powerful word in advocacy and human rights discussions. When activists march for equal marriage rights, they are fighting for a reforme égalitaire. When students demand that everyone receives the same quality of education regardless of their zip code, they are demanding an accès égalitaire à l'éducation.
Political Context
In politics, an egalitarian ideology forms the basis of many democratic socialist and progressive platforms that prioritize human rights and social equity over unregulated capitalism.

Le candidat a promis de mettre en place un système de santé plus égalitaire.

The cultural weight of this word in France cannot be overstated. The French national motto, Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité, places equality at the center of the Republic's identity. Therefore, any policy or action that threatens this egalitarian ideal is often met with fierce public resistance and widespread protests.

Ils militent pour une répartition égalitaire des richesses mondiales.

Ultimately, mastering the use of this word allows learners to engage deeply with French cultural values, participate in complex discussions about society, and express sophisticated opinions on fairness, justice, and the structural organization of human communities.

Une relation de couple saine doit reposer sur des bases égalitaires.

Exploring the nuances of this term opens doors to understanding the ongoing debates in the Francophone world regarding gender parity, racial justice, and economic reform, proving that language is indeed a mirror of societal values.
Using the word égalitaire correctly in French sentences requires a clear understanding of French grammar, particularly adjective placement and agreement, as well as an awareness of the specific contexts in which this word naturally appears. Because it is an adjective, its primary function is to modify a noun, providing more information about the nature of that noun. In French, most adjectives, especially those that are long and descriptive like égalitaire, are placed immediately after the noun they modify. Therefore, you will almost always see structures like 'une société égalitaire' rather than 'une égalitaire société'. This post-nominal placement is a fundamental rule that learners must internalize to sound natural and fluent.
Adjective Agreement
Like all French adjectives, égalitaire must agree in number with the noun it modifies. However, because it ends in a mute 'e', it remains the same in both masculine and feminine singular forms.

Un monde égalitaire est le rêve de nombreux philosophes.

When the noun is plural, whether masculine or feminine, you simply add an 's' to the end, resulting in 'égalitaires'. For instance, 'des lois égalitaires' (egalitarian laws) or 'des principes égalitaires' (egalitarian principles). This makes it somewhat easier for learners, as there is no need to worry about complex feminine transformations like adding an extra 'e' or changing the final consonant.
Syntactic Structures
The word is often used in combination with verbs like rendre (to make), promouvoir (to promote), and défendre (to defend) to express actions aimed at achieving equality.

Le gouvernement souhaite rendre le système fiscal plus égalitaire.

In addition to modifying nouns directly, égalitaire can also be used as a predicate adjective following state-of-being verbs like être (to be), sembler (to seem), or devenir (to become). For example, 'Ce projet de loi est très égalitaire' (This bill is very egalitarian). This structure is particularly common in debates and analytical writing where the qualities of a concept or document are being assessed.
Negative Sentences
In negative sentences, the structure remains the same, but the negation surrounds the verb, highlighting the lack of egalitarian qualities.

Ce système n'est pas du tout égalitaire, il favorise les riches.

To elevate your French writing, you can incorporate adverbs to modify the adjective, such as 'profondément' (deeply), 'strictement' (strictly), or 'véritablement' (truly). Phrasing like 'une vision profondément égalitaire' demonstrates a high level of language proficiency and adds nuance to your arguments.

Ils ont adopté une approche strictement égalitaire pour résoudre le conflit.

By mastering these sentence patterns, learners can confidently participate in discussions about fairness and justice, ensuring their grammar is as precise as the concepts they are articulating.

La constitution garantit des droits égalitaires pour tous les citoyens.

Understanding these grammatical mechanics is essential for anyone aiming to reach a B2 or C1 level in French, where the ability to express abstract and ideological concepts clearly is a key requirement for fluency.
The word égalitaire is not just a theoretical term confined to dusty philosophy books; it is a vibrant, frequently used adjective that you will encounter in numerous real-life contexts across the Francophone world. One of the most common places you will hear this word is in the realm of politics and news media. French political discourse is heavily centered around the concepts of state intervention, social welfare, and public services, all of which are frequently evaluated on how égalitaire they are.
News Media
Journalists and political commentators frequently use the term when analyzing new government policies, budgets, or social reforms to determine if they benefit all citizens equally.

Le journal télévisé a débattu de la nature égalitaire de la nouvelle réforme des retraites.

During election campaigns, candidates from various parties will promise to build a more egalitarian society, making it a buzzword that is essential for understanding political platforms. You will also hear it extensively in sociological and academic discussions. University lectures, documentaries, and essays exploring topics like gender studies, wealth inequality, and racial discrimination rely heavily on this vocabulary.
Workplace and Corporate Culture
In the modern professional environment, human resources departments and labor unions use the term to advocate for fair treatment, equal pay, and unbiased hiring practices.

Notre entreprise s'engage à maintenir un environnement de travail strictement égalitaire.

Beyond the formal spheres of politics and academia, the word permeates everyday conversations, particularly among younger generations who are highly engaged in social activism. If you attend a protest, a community organizing meeting, or even just sit in a café listening to university students discuss current events, you are bound to hear debates about whether a certain action or trend is truly égalitaire. Furthermore, the term has gained significant traction in discussions about family dynamics and personal relationships. Articles in lifestyle magazines frequently discuss how to achieve an 'éducation égalitaire' (egalitarian upbringing) for children, ensuring that boys and girls are given the same responsibilities and freedoms.
Everyday Activism
Grassroots movements and social media campaigns frequently utilize the term to rally support for causes related to systemic fairness and human rights.

Les manifestants réclament une justice plus égalitaire pour les minorités.

Couples might discuss the need for a 'partage égalitaire des tâches ménagères' (equal sharing of household chores).

Ils ont opté pour un modèle familial résolument égalitaire.

By recognizing these diverse contexts, language learners can appreciate that égalitaire is not a static vocabulary word, but a dynamic concept that reflects the ongoing evolution of French society and its continuous pursuit of the ideals enshrined in its national motto.

La conception égalitaire de l'école républicaine est souvent débattue.

Whether you are reading a high-level political analysis or chatting with a friend about sharing rent, understanding where and how this word appears will significantly enhance your cultural and linguistic fluency.
When English speakers learn the French word égalitaire, they often encounter a few common stumbling blocks related to its specific meaning, its grammatical usage, and its pronunciation. One of the most frequent mistakes is confusing it with the word 'égal' (equal). While both words share the same root, they are not always interchangeable. 'Égal' is typically used for strict, mathematical, or direct equivalence, such as 'Deux plus deux est égal à quatre' (Two plus two equals four) or 'Ils ont une force égale' (They have equal strength). In contrast, 'égalitaire' refers to the broader principle, system, or philosophy of equality.
Conceptual Confusion
Using 'égal' when describing a society or policy instead of 'égalitaire' strips the sentence of its ideological meaning and sounds unnatural to native speakers.

Incorrect : Une société égale. Correct : Une société égalitaire.

Another common error involves confusing 'égalitaire' with 'équitable' (fair or equitable). While an egalitarian system aims to treat everyone exactly the same, an equitable system recognizes that people have different needs and circumstances and adjusts treatment accordingly to achieve a fair outcome. For example, giving every student the exact same textbook is 'égalitaire', but providing audiobooks to visually impaired students while giving standard textbooks to others is 'équitable'.
Nuance in Meaning
Failing to distinguish between equality (sameness) and equity (fairness) can lead to misunderstandings in complex social or political discussions.

Le commerce équitable n'est pas toujours strictement égalitaire.

Grammatically, learners sometimes mistakenly try to change the ending of the word to match feminine nouns, creating non-existent words like 'égalitaira' or adding an extra 'e' ('égalitairee'). Because the base form of the adjective already ends in an 'e', it is invariable for gender. It is crucial to remember that it only changes for plurality by adding an 's'.
Spelling and Grammar Errors
Overcomplicating the agreement rules for adjectives ending in 'e' is a common trait among intermediate learners trying to apply general rules too broadly.

La loi est égalitaire (not égalitairee).

Pronunciation also poses a challenge. The acute accent on the first 'e' (é) requires a sharp, closed 'ay' sound, similar to the 'a' in the English word 'day', but shorter. The 'ai' in the middle of the word produces an open 'eh' sound, like in the English word 'pet'. English speakers often blur these distinct vowel sounds, resulting in a mispronunciation that can confuse native listeners.

Il faut prononcer clairement chaque syllabe du mot égalitaire.

Finally, a stylistic mistake is using the word to describe an individual's personality in a casual setting. While you can say a person has an egalitarian mindset, calling someone 'un homme égalitaire' sounds slightly awkward; it is better to say 'un homme qui défend l'égalité' (a man who defends equality).

C'est un penseur aux idées profondément égalitaires.

Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your French sound much more sophisticated and precise, allowing you to navigate complex topics with confidence and clarity.
Expanding your vocabulary around the concept of equality is crucial for achieving fluency in French, as relying solely on the word égalitaire can make your speech repetitive and less precise. There are several similar words and alternatives, each carrying its own distinct nuance and appropriate context for use. The most immediate alternative is 'équitable', which translates to fair or equitable. As discussed previously, while égalitaire focuses on strict sameness, équitable focuses on justice and fairness, taking individual circumstances into account.
Équitable vs. Égalitaire
Use équitable when discussing fair trade (le commerce équitable) or justice systems that aim for fair outcomes rather than identical treatment.

Un compromis équitable est souvent préférable à une division strictement égalitaire.

Another highly relevant term is 'paritaire'. This word specifically refers to parity or equal representation, most often in the context of gender or political representation. For example, a 'gouvernement paritaire' is a government composed of exactly 50% men and 50% women. While a paritaire system is inherently égalitaire, it is a much more specific term used to describe statistical or numerical equality between two distinct groups.
Paritaire
This term is essential in modern political and corporate discussions regarding gender quotas and equal representation on boards or committees.

La nouvelle loi impose des conseils d'administration paritaires, renforçant ainsi l'idéal égalitaire.

The word 'juste' (just or fair) is a broader and more common alternative that can be used in everyday conversation. While it lacks the systemic or political weight of égalitaire, it effectively communicates the idea of fairness. For instance, 'Ce n'est pas juste' (That's not fair) is something you might hear a child say, whereas an adult analyzing a tax policy might say 'Ce n'est pas égalitaire'.
Juste
A versatile adjective suitable for both formal and informal contexts to describe moral correctness or fairness.

Il est juste que chacun contribue, ce qui est le fondement d'un système égalitaire.

Furthermore, the adjective 'démocratique' (democratic) is frequently used alongside or in place of égalitaire when discussing institutions that give equal voice or voting power to all members. While democracy refers to a system of governance, the underlying philosophy is inherently egalitarian. Finally, for those looking to express the opposite concept, the antonyms are just as important. 'Inégalitaire' (unequal, creating inequality), 'élitiste' (elitist), and 'hiérarchique' (hierarchical) are vital words for contrasting with an egalitarian ideal.

Nous devons combattre les structures inégalitaires pour bâtir un avenir plus égalitaire.

By mastering this network of related vocabulary, you can articulate your thoughts with the precision and eloquence expected of an advanced French speaker, navigating the subtle differences between sameness, fairness, and representation.

Une approche purement égalitaire peut parfois manquer de nuance face à des besoins spécifiques.

Understanding these alternatives ensures that you always have the right word for the exact concept you wish to convey.
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Examples by Level

1

Le partage du gâteau est égalitaire.

The sharing of the cake is equal.

Adjective agrees with the masculine singular noun 'partage'.

2

C'est une règle égalitaire pour tous les enfants.

It is an equal rule for all the children.

Adjective modifies the feminine singular noun 'règle'.

3

Nous voulons un jeu égalitaire.

We want a fair/equal game.

Placed after the noun 'jeu'.

4

La distribution des bonbons est égalitaire.

The distribution of the candies is equal.

Modifies 'distribution'.

5

Ils ont une relation égalitaire.

They have an equal relationship.

Modifies 'relation'.

6

Le professeur donne un temps égalitaire à chacun.

The teacher gives equal time to everyone.

Modifies 'temps'.

7

C'est un groupe égalitaire.

It is an egalitarian group.

Modifies 'groupe'.

8

Les lois sont égalitaires ici.

The laws are equal here.

Plural form 'égalitaires' agreeing with 'lois'.

1

Dans notre famille, le travail ménager est égalitaire.

In our family, housework is equal.

Modifies 'travail'.

2

Ils cherchent une solution égalitaire pour le problème.

They are looking for an equal solution for the problem.

Modifies 'solution'.

3

Ce sport propose des règles égalitaires pour les hommes et les femmes.

This sport offers equal rules for men and women.

Plural form 'égalitaires'.

4

Le système scolaire en France se veut égalitaire.

The school system in France aims to be egalitarian.

Used with the reflexive verb 'se vouloir'.

5

C'est important d'avoir une société égalitaire.

It is important to have an egalitarian society.

Common collocation 'société égalitaire'.

6

Leur amitié est basée sur des principes égalitaires.

Their friendship is based on equal principles.

Plural agreement with 'principes'.

7

Nous devons trouver un accord égalitaire.

We must find an equal agreement.

Modifies 'accord'.

8

L'accès à la bibliothèque est égalitaire.

Access to the library is equal.

Modifies 'accès'.

1

Le gouvernement a promis de mettre en place une politique plus égalitaire.

The government promised to implement a more egalitarian policy.

Use of comparative 'plus'.

2

Beaucoup de jeunes militent pour un monde strictement égalitaire.

Many young people campaign for a strictly egalitarian world.

Modified by the adverb 'strictement'.

3

Le partage des richesses n'est pas toujours égalitaire dans ce pays.

The sharing of wealth is not always equal in this country.

Used in a negative sentence structure.

4

Ils ont adopté un modèle d'éducation égalitaire pour leurs enfants.

They adopted an egalitarian education model for their children.

Modifies 'modèle d'éducation'.

5

Ce syndicat défend des valeurs profondément égalitaires.

This union defends deeply egalitarian values.

Plural feminine agreement with 'valeurs'.

6

Il est difficile de créer un système fiscal parfaitement égalitaire.

It is difficult to create a perfectly egalitarian tax system.

Modified by 'parfaitement'.

7

Le mariage pour tous a été une avancée égalitaire majeure.

Marriage for all was a major egalitarian advancement.

Modifies 'avancée'.

8

Nous voulons un accès égalitaire aux soins médicaux.

We want equal access to medical care.

Common collocation 'accès égalitaire'.

1

La constitution garantit un traitement égalitaire à tous les citoyens, sans distinction d'origine.

The constitution guarantees equal treatment to all citizens, without distinction of origin.

Formal legal context, modifies 'traitement'.

2

Cette réforme vise à rendre le marché du travail plus égalitaire entre les sexes.

This reform aims to make the job market more egalitarian between the sexes.

Used with the verb 'rendre' (to make).

3

Les critiques affirment que cette mesure, bien que populaire, est fondamentalement inégalitaire.

Critics assert that this measure, although popular, is fundamentally unequal.

Contrast using the antonym 'inégalitaire'.

4

L'idéal égalitaire de la République française est souvent mis à l'épreuve par la réalité économique.

The egalitarian ideal of the French Republic is often tested by economic reality.

Modifies 'idéal'.

5

Dans les pays scandinaves, les politiques familiales sont réputées pour être très égalitaires.

In Scandinavian countries, family policies are known to be very egalitarian.

Plural agreement with 'politiques'.

6

Le débat portait sur la nécessité d'une redistribution égalitaire des ressources naturelles.

The debate focused on the need for an egalitarian redistribution of natural resources.

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