1. When referring to an indefinite quantity of something:
* Positive statements: "J'ai du pain" (I have some bread)
* Negative statements: "Je n'ai pas de pain" (I don't have any bread)
* Questions: "Avez-vous du lait ?" (Do you have some milk?)
2. When talking about a portion of a whole:
* "Je voudrais un morceau de gâteau" (I would like a piece of cake)
* "Il y a beaucoup de gens ici" (There are a lot of people here)
3. When referring to a general quality or characteristic:
* "C'est un homme de courage" (He is a man of courage)
* "Il a un air de tristesse" (He has a look of sadness)
However, the partitive article is NOT used:
* When referring to a specific quantity: "J'ai deux pommes" (I have two apples)
* When using a noun with a definite article: "Je veux la pomme rouge" (I want the red apple)
* With abstract nouns: "J'ai peur" (I am scared)
* With certain expressions: "Il a soif" (He is thirsty)
Some key things to remember:
* "De" alone is used after a negative or a question: "Je n'ai pas de voiture" (I don't have a car)
* "De l'" is used before a vowel or silent "h": "J'ai de l'eau" (I have some water)
* "Des" is used for plural nouns: "J'ai des amis" (I have some friends)
Understanding the partitive article can be tricky, but it is crucial for speaking and writing correctly in French. If you are unsure, it's always best to consult a grammar book or a French teacher!