When do I use Ser and Estar

'Ser' is used for: Descriptions, Occupations, Characteristics, Time, Origins and Relationships'Estar' is used for: emotions, physical or mental conditions, locations, positions and actions In general, 'ser' is used to describe things that are relatively permanent, such as describing appearance, nationality and characteristics of a person. Meanwhile 'estar' describes relatively temporary states. For example, actions that are happening in the moment and temporary emotions (not to be confused with characteristics). The obvious exception to this is location when talking about e.g rooms in a house.Other exceptions include: When describing where an event is held, 'ser' is used. Also, when describing how food tastes, 'estar' is used.

HB
Answered by Hugo B. Spanish tutor

2721 Views

See similar Spanish GCSE tutors

Related Spanish GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Where do you live, describe its characteristics, location and size


What's the difference between the verbs SER and ESTAR in Spanish?


Fill in the blanks by conjugating the verbs in the preterite or imperfect tense: Cada verano mi familia y yo ------(ir) a la playa en Madrid. ---(Ser) uno de mis lugares favoritos para ir pero Un verano ----(quedar ) cerca de las montañas.


Translate the following passage into Spanish: I like to go to the cinema. I love horror films because they are very exciting. My friends prefer romantic films, but I think they are a bit boring. Next week, I am going to see a science fiction film ...


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