Ser and Estar

The verbs ser and estar both mean 'to be' in English. However, each one has different uses in Spanish, depending on the situation, or what one is trying to describe. If the differences don't seem perfectly clear to you after reading this, don't worry. This is a tough subject for anyone studying Spanish, and it usually takes a long time to sort out and remember the differences.

Ser

soy         somos
eres        sois
es          son

In very general terms, we can say that ser identifies, or tells what things are. It sort of puts a label on people, things and ideas. Thats why you'll find it used with:

Indentifying someone: Soy Pedro. Ella es mi hermana.

Professions: Juan y Ramón son dentistas.

Personality traits: Mi padre es amable.

Bodily characteristics: Mi hermano es alto.

Nationality: Carole es francesa.

Birthplace / origen: Jean es de Francia.

Possession: El coche es de Julián.

Time: Son las 10:00.

Impersonal expressions: Es muy importante.


Estar

estoy       estamos
estás       estáis
está        están

Estar has three major uses:

1) Location

Mis amigos están en la playa.
Francia está al norte de Espańa.

2) Emotions and Transitional Physical Condition (temporary)

Estamos contentos hoy.
Estoy cansado.
Mi hermana está enferma.
El motor está caliente.

3) With the Present Progressive

Estamos comiendo.
Mis amigos están jugando al fútbol.

Related Topics

General Considerations about Verbs
Contents
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