When do we use the verb ser and when do we use the verb estar?

In Spanish there are two different verbs for the verb "to be" in English, Ser and Estar. The two are not interchangeable, as they have two different uses. We use the verb ser when we are describing something permanent. i.e. nationality "soy inglesa" or a characteristic of a person for example "su pelo es rubia". In contrast we use the verb Estar when talking about something temporary i.e. location or mood "estoy cansada" "estoy en mi dormitorio".

MN
Answered by Madeleine N. Spanish tutor

3229 Views

See similar Spanish GCSE tutors

Related Spanish GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are the differences in writing an SAQ and an LAQ?


How does this person describe his experience? "Durante los Juegos Olímpicos del 2012 los turistas gastaron dinero en la capital. Esto ayudó la economía de Inglaterra y me alegró mucho."


How do I know whether to use the preterite or imperfect past tense?


Why are there 2 past tenses in Spanish? How do I remember the difference between them?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning