Hello,
Why is it not 'tu n'as pas de clope?'
I thought we used a partitive article rather than a definite article when doing negations? So, in this case, de vs. une.
Hello,
Why is it not 'tu n'as pas de clope?'
I thought we used a partitive article rather than a definite article when doing negations? So, in this case, de vs. une.
Hi Alex,
I agree that it is a confusing example and have asked for a review.
In the meantime, there is a difference in meaning between -
Tu n'as pas une clope ?
This phrase uses the indefinite article "une" (a/one). It implies that you're asking for a specific cigarette, as in "Do you have one cigarette I could have?" - It's slightly more direct and can sound like you're expecting or hoping the person has a cigarette or can spare one.
and
Tu n'as pas de clopes?
This phrase uses the partitive article "de" (any). - It's a more general question, asking if the person has any cigarettes at all. - It can sound slightly less presumptuous, as you're not assuming they have cigarettes.
I hope this helps!
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