Ser vs Estar: The Complete Guide

Introduction

One of the biggest challenges for Spanish learners is knowing when to use ‘ser’ and when to use ‘estar.’ This guide will help you master both verbs.

Ser: To Be (Permanent)

Use ‘ser’ for:

• Identity (Soy estudiante.)
• Origin (Eres de México.)
• Characteristics (La casa es grande.)
• Time/Date (Son las dos.)
• Profession (Mi padre es médico.)

Estar: To Be (Temporary/Location)

Use ‘estar’ for:

• Location (Estoy en casa.)
• Emotions (Estamos felices.)
• Ongoing actions (Están estudiando.)
• Conditions (La puerta está abierta.)

Example Sentences

• Ella es inteligente. (She is intelligent.)
• Ella está cansada. (She is tired.)

Practice Exercise

Write five sentences using ‘ser’ and five using ‘estar.‘

Next Steps

Learn about Spanish Present Tense to conjugate verbs like a pro!