Cuál es la diferencia entre los verbos 'ser' y 'estar'?

This translates to "what is the difference between 'ser' and 'estar'?"This is a very common question within English students learning Spanish because both 'ser' and 'estar' translate to the verb to be.An easy way to differentiate these two verbs is by using 'ser' for permanent or semi-permanent (long-term) states of people and objects. Nationality, professions, etc. are good examples. In contrast, 'estar' is used for temporary states (not permanent), like in weather statements, mood states, etc.This means that in some cases, in a particular sentence the use of one of these verbs will determine the sense of what is being said.For example, "estoy atento" means "I'm paying attention", which is temporary because of its implied emphasis on the particular moment the action is taking place. On the other hand, "soy atento" means "I'm an attentive person", which is a more permanent character trait. Even if character traits may change through time, we can clearly recognise that they are subject to a longer term evolution than an abrupt change.FInally, it is important to remember two things.Firstly, regarding the verb 'ser', the trickiest exception is time. When we talk about dates or hours, we use the verb 'ser' even though there is nothing more temporary than time. For example: "Son las nueve" which means "It's nine o'clock".Secondly, it is very useful to remember that progressive tenses that are following in English by -ing will always use the verb 'estar' + verb in progressive tense.