1. Nouns in attributive and adverbial prepositional phrases of manner have no article even if they have a descriptive attribute. Such phrases are usually introduced with the prepositions of, with, in.

e.g. His face bore a look of cold disapproval.

He had hunger for knowledge. … a feeling of sharp anticipation, to look with curiosity/in annoyance, with intense interest, with great care.

Occasionally, the definite or the indefinite article may be found in prepositional phrases: e.g. May I speak to you in the strictest confidence?

The use of the indefinite article here is optional and depends solely on the desire of the speaker to lay a stress on a special aspect expressed by the attribute: e.g. He looked at her face and saw the distorting lines of a deep and anxious weariness.

But!!! When we have certain and perculiar the indefinite article is obligatory. E.g. with a certain impatience, with a peculiar intimacy.

2. Uncountable abstract nouns in the function of a predicative are used without any article even if they are characterized by a descriptive attribute:

e.g. It was pure happiness. This was not just ordinary anxiety.

The use of Articles with Uncountable Concrete Nouns (Names of Materials)

They are generally used without any article even if they are modified by a descriptive attribute.

e.g. socks of thick grey wool

The definite article can be used depending on the context. E.g. The boss took a pen and picked a fly out of the ink.

Sometimes, owing to a change of meaning, names of materials become countable.

1. when various sorts of materials and food products are meant: teas, cheeses.

2. When a portion is meant: e.g. A salad and two coffees, please.

3. A tin of sardines – банка сардин, a glass of juice – стакан сока.