When do I use SER and when do I use ESTAR?

Firstly, ser and estar both mean 'to be'. When followed by a gerund, we always use estar. Eg: "La chica está cantando"The choice of the verb depends on many factors, mainly whether the adjective is referring to a permanent (ser) or temporary (estar) state. There are some helpful ways to remember when to use each one: SERD - description "Ella es muy simpática"O - occupation "Mi padre es bombero"C - characteristic "Mi hermana es rubia"T - time "Son las cinco y media"O - origin "Somos de Argentina"R - relation "Él es mi mejor amigo"ESTARP - position "Los chicos están en el parque"L - location "Estoy en Madrid"A - action "Estamos haciendo la cena"C - condition "Estoy cansado, voy a dormir"E - emotion "Está muy contento"

Answered by Lauren V. Spanish tutor

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