What is the difference between “ser” and “estar”?

Although they both mean “to be”, these two verbs don’t convey the same meaning. Spanish people mark the difference between different meaning of “being” constantly, it is therefore essential to understand how to use “ser” and “estar”.Ex:1)     Somos diez en la clase de inglés. (We are ten [people] in English class.)2)     Estamos diez en el aula. (We are ten [people who are physically present] in the class.) 1)     Sofia es muy lista. (Sofia is very smart.)2)     Sofia está lista. (Sofia is ready.) These are the main usages of each verbs. Ser Description“Mis padres son jóvenes.” (My parents are young.) “Soy inglesa.” (I am English.) Occupation“Soy profesora en un colegio.” (I am a teacher in a secondary school.)“Yo soy estudiante.” (I am a student.) Characteristic“Pablo es un chico simpático.” (Pablo is a nice guy.)“El profesor no es estricto.” (The teacher isn’t strict.) Time“Ya son las cinco de la tarde!” (It’s already 5 pm!)“Es la una.” (It’s 1 o’clock.) Origin“Soy de Francia.” (I am from France.)“Son de Londres.” (They are from London.)Relationship“Es mi novio.” (He is my boyfriend.)“Es mi jefe.” (He/She is my boss.)Estar Position or physical/mental condition« Estoy sentada. » (I am seated/seating.)“La comida está rica.” (The food is delicious.)“Toda la clase está enferma.” (The whole class is sick.) Location« Estamos en el parque. » (We are in the park.)“Mi habitación está a la derecha.” (My room is on the right side.) Emotions« Estoy feliz. » (I am happy.)“No estaba contenta de sus notas.” (He/She wasn’t satisfied with his/her grades.) Actions « Estoy ordenando mi cuarto. » (I am tidying my room.)“Estamos estudiando para el examen.” (We are studying for the exam.) Note worthy: “Mi abuela está viva/muerta.” (My grandmother is alive/dead.)Not SER.

Answered by Julie M. Spanish tutor

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Lee este texto de la novela de José Martí, Amistad funesta. Complétalo, escogiendo palabras de la lista A – P en la página siguiente. Escribe la letra de la palabra en la casilla.


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