Ser vs Estar: which Spanish “to be” to use
Short answer
Use ser for identity, origin, material, time and lasting traits. Use estar for location, temporary states and the result of a change. Es alegre means he is a cheerful person; está alegre means he is cheerful right now.
Level A1 · verbs, ser estar
The rule in full
| ser | estar | |
|---|---|---|
| yo | soy | estoy |
| tú | eres | estás |
| él/ella/usted | es | está |
| nosotros | somos | estamos |
| vosotros | sois | estáis |
| ellos/ustedes | son | están |
ser — identity, origin, profession, material, time, permanent traits:
- Soy médico. Es de México. Son las tres.
estar — location, temporary state, result, -ando forms:
- Estoy cansado. El libro está en la mesa. Está lloviendo.
Meaning changes
| Adjective | ser | estar |
|---|---|---|
| aburrido | boring | bored |
| listo | clever | ready |
| rico | rich | tasty |
| verde | green | unripe |
Check yourself
5 questions, with the reason for each answer.
Question 1 of 50 correct
Mi hermana ___ médica.
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