Ser vs. Estar
Knowing when to use either "ser" or "estar" can be tricky because both verbs are translated into English as "to be".
In general:
" Ser" is primarily used when describing the intrinsic, more or less permanent characteristics of the subject.
José es alto. - Jose is tall.
" Estar" is used for the emotional or physical state that the subject is in.
José está emocionado. - Jose is excited.
Use "ser" with:
- nationalities and places of origin
- professions or occupations
- characteristics of people and things
- generalizations
- possessions
- what something is made of
- time and date
- where an event takes place
- stages of life
Use "estar" with:
- location or spatial relationships
- health
- physical states and conditions
- emotional states
- ongoing actions
- certain weather expressions
Check out these Fluencia lessons on the differences between “ser” and “estar”:
"Ser" vs. "Estar"
Common phrases with "ser" and "estar"
Reviewing "ser" and "estar"
Reviewing "ser" and "estar" once again
Uses of "ser": Descriptions and Origins
Using "ser" to tell time
The basics of "estar"
Uses of "estar"
Temporary conditions with "estar"
Temporary conditions with "estar" 2
Common prepositions for "estar"
You can learn more about the difference between these verbs on our sister site, SpanishDict.com!
Compare both verbs here:
"Ser" vs. "Estar"
Quick tips for understanding "ser" and "estar"
Learn more about “ser” here:
Using "ser" with descriptions
Using "ser" with origins
Using "ser" with time
Learn more about “estar” here:
Using "estar" with conditions
Using "estar" with locations
While knowing which verb to choose may seem difficult at first, making a decision will become a lot easier with time and practice! As always, you can certainly email us if you have a specific question, or if even if you just need some encouragement!