What is the difference between the Spanish verbs "ser" and "estar"?

In general, ser refers to permanent states and estar refers to to temporary states.In particular, estar can be used for locations, except when talking about events.
For example, Su café está listo = Your coffee is ready.
Estar can also be used to describe an action.
For example, La chica está trabajando = The girl is working.

SB
Answered by Simran B. Spanish tutor

1896 Views

See similar Spanish GCSE tutors

Related Spanish GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between the verbs "ser" and "estar" and when should they be used?


What is the best way to learn the vocabulary list?


Desarrolla los posibles temas e intenciones de Federico García Lorca al escribir "La casa de Bernarda Alba"


When should I use the present subjunctive in Spanish?


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