What is the difference between 'es' and 'está?'

This is a very common mistake made by Spanish learners. Identifying the times to use these different verbs is essential for a high grade and for accuracy in both written and spoken language. The mistake is made because both of these words translate in English to 'it is,' and there is only one way of saying 'it is' in English. However, in Spanish, these 2 words are used in different situations, which I will now briefly outline.
'Es' is used when describing something permanent, such as a physical or personality characteristic. E.g. That man is very tall = Ese hombre es muy alto 'Está,' however, is used to describe a temporary state. This could be a location or an emotional state.E.g. She is very sad today = Hoy, está muy triste

RH

Related Spanish GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do Spanish gender agreements work?


When do you use the imperfect tense and how do you form it?


basics of past tenses in Spanish - What is the difference between the Preterite and Imperfect?


Escribe un blog sobre tus vacaciones en Espana. Menciona (1) un dia de las vacaciones cuando tuviste problemas, (2) un festival en Espana en que te gustaria participar