Ser vs. Estar: understanding the difference between two Spanish verbs meaning “to be,” plus usage rules and examples.
In Spanish, ser and estar both mean “to be,” but they’re used in different contexts. Ser is for more permanent, essential qualities, while estar describes temporary states or locations. Let’s explore how to choose the right one!
Ser: Usage Rules
Ser* is used for things that are seen as permanent, defining, or inherent. It’s also used for origins, professions, and telling time.
- Descriptions (physical/personality traits)
- Origins and nationality
- Professions and roles
- Time, dates, and events
- Possession (using de)
Which of the following is NOT a correct use of ser?
Describing someone’s profession
Ser is used for permanent or defining traits like professions, while temporary moods, locations, and ongoing actions require estar.
Estar: Usage Rules
Estar* is used for temporary conditions, locations, and ongoing actions (with gerunds). It focuses on states that can change.
- Temporary moods or physical states
- Locations (people, places, things)
- Ongoing actions (estar + gerund)
- Results of actions (past participles)
Common Mistakes
It’s a classic error for English speakers to use ser when estar is needed, especially with feelings or locations.
- Soy cansado. (I’m tired. — Wrong)
- Estoy cansado. (I’m tired. — Correct)
- Está en Madrid. (She’s in Madrid. — Correct)
- Es en Madrid. (She’s in Madrid. — Wrong)
Summary
| Usage | Ser | Estar |
|---|---|---|
| Description | permanent traits | temporary states |
| Origin/Profession | ️ | |
| Location | ️ | |
| Time/Date | ️ | |
| Ongoing Actions | ️ (with gerund) | |
| Resulting States | ️ |
Mastering ser vs. estar is about understanding permanent vs. temporary — a key step in thinking like a Spanish speaker!
Which verb would you use for a permanent description: ser or estar?
ser
Permanent descriptions use ser, while temporary states use estar.
Last updated: Thu Jun 5, 2025
