Du vs De in French: When to Use Each

French learners often struggle with the correct use of "du" and "de". These small words play a crucial role in French grammar, but their usage can be confusing. Let's clarify when to use each one.

What are "du" and "de"?

"Du" is a contraction of "de le" (of the), while "de" means "of" or "from". Both are used in various contexts, including expressing possession, origin, or quantity.

When to Use "Du"

"Du" is used in the following situations:

1. Partitive Article

"Du" is used as a partitive article for masculine singular nouns, indicating an unspecified quantity:

• Je bois du lait. (I drink [some] milk.)
• Il mange du pain. (He eats [some] bread.)

2. With Masculine Countries

Use "du" when referring to masculine countries without an article:

• Je viens du Canada. (I come from Canada.)
• Le vin du Portugal est excellent. (Wine from Portugal is excellent.)

When to Use "De"

"De" has more diverse applications:

1. Possession or Origin

• Le livre de Marie. (Marie's book)
• Il vient de Paris. (He comes from Paris)

2. After Quantity Expressions

• Beaucoup de personnes. (Many people)
• Un kilo de pommes. (A kilo of apples)

3. In Negative Sentences

"De" replaces partitive articles in negative sentences:

• Je ne bois pas de lait. (I don't drink milk.)

4. Before Adjectives in Plural

• J'ai de bons amis. (I have good friends.)

Common Expressions

Some fixed expressions use "du" or "de":

• Du coup (as a result)
• De temps en temps (from time to time)
• Du matin au soir (from morning to night)

Remember, practice is key to mastering the use of "du" and "de". Pay attention to these words in French texts and conversations to improve your understanding and usage.