The above rule is subject to many exceptions for the sake of euphony or to give more than the ordinary prominence to the adjective or the noun; however, the following rule will be found a reliable general one, and it is in fact the informing principle of all special rules given in the various grammars—
An adjective used as an epithet should precede the noun; if used as a distinguishing word it should follow.
By an adjective used as an epithet, we mean one calling to mind a quality known (or supposed) to belong to the noun, as—
No perdió el aliento el valiente general: The brave general did not lose courage.
By a distinguishing word we mean one used to indicate the quality of a noun as compared with another of the same species, as—
Quiero comprar maquinaria barata: I wish to buy cheap machinery.
The Partitive Adjectives "some" and "any" are left out in translation when they do not convey the idea of limited quantity. When they do, "algún," "un poco de" (sing.), "algunos" and "unos" (pl.) are used.
"Un poco de" and "unos" convey the idea of a more limited quantity or number than "alguno" and "algunos."
The following few examples are calculated to make it clear as regards the various shades of meaning—
¿Tiene V. alfombras? Have you any carpets?