What is the difference between ser and estar?

Both 'ser' and 'estar' mean 'to be' in Spanish.However unlike English, there are two words which need to be used in different scenarios/contexts.
Ser -The acronym DOCTOR can be used for this-Descriptions eg. height, nationality ect.Occupations Characteristics eg. intelligent Time (including dates)Origin eg. made of something Relationships eg. this is my mum
It corresponds with identity eg. physical features, age, work, religion, personality
Ser also shows permanence

Estar -The acronym PLACE can be used to help remember- Position eg. physical position or posture Location Action eg. can be followed by another verb in the present or past participle to show ongoing actions Condition eg. physical and mental conditions of things or peopleEmotion eg .happiness
Estar also shows more temporary things

They have different conjugations too and although they are translated to the same meaning in English, understanding when to use each word is key (especially as it is such a common verb)


ED
Answered by Eleanor D. Spanish tutor

2086 Views

See similar Spanish GCSE tutors

Related Spanish GCSE answers

All answers ▸

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 put a verb in present tense?


El sabado pasado, fuiste a la tomatina en Valencia. Escribe un blog para describir tus experiencias.


What is the Spanish present tense, when and how do you use it?


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