how do you know to use "les" instead of "des"

judith D.A1Kwiziq community member

how do you know to use "les" instead of "des"

Asked 2 years ago
Jim J.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

Hi Judith,

This understanding comes from studying the French grammar "articles"

The key is to be able to identify the category of the noun before which is placed an "article".

"les" is placed before plural nouns as a definite article. 

"des" is placed before plural nouns as an indefinite article. ie. Un garçon a boy , des garçons some boys. 

The subject is too extensive to explain in a post like this  --  you simply need to study "Articles" to enhance your overall understanding.

Le/la/l' = The (French Definite Articles)

Hope this helps.

Jim

CélineNative French expert teacher in Kwiziq

Bonjour Judith,

Here are another couples of links to supplement Jim's answer: 

plural-of-the-and-a-les-and-des-articles

du-de-la-de-l-are-used-to-express-some-or-any-partitive-articles

I hope this is helpful.

Bonne journée !

how do you know to use "les" instead of "des"

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