The difference between ser and estar.

Ser and Estar both mean 'to be' in Spanish, however they are used at different times during language. Estar is used mostly for temporary things, such as…·      weather – está lloviendo·      physical actions – estoy sentada·      location – está a la derecha·      or emotions – están tristes.Ser is used for most other things including…·      occupations – soy profesora ·      nationality and origin – es ingles ·      time – son las cinco y medio ·      characteristics – somos amables.Swapping out ser and estar can change the meaning of what you say:·      ser aburrido – to be boring, estar aburrido – to be bored·      ser listo – to be clever, estar listo – to be ready·      ser orgulloso – to be conceited, estar orgulloso – to be proud.

SW
Answered by Steph W. Spanish tutor

1896 Views

See similar Spanish A Level tutors

Related Spanish A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can I improve my speaking examination?


What is the difference between "por" and "para"?


¿Qué sabes tú de las relaciones multiculturales en el mundo hispánico?


How should I approach an essay question in the exam?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning