# grammar.verbs.ser-estar — Ser vs Estar

Learner language: English  
Level: A1-A2  
Status: internally_reviewed
Depth: standard  
Version: 0.1.0

## Summary

Use ser for identity, origin, classification, and stable description. Use estar for state, condition, location, and temporary situations.

## Core explanation

Ser and estar both often translate as “to be” in English, but Spanish separates identity from state.

Use ser when you say what something is: identity, origin, profession, time, material, or a general characteristic.

Use estar when you say how or where something is: condition, mood, location, result, or temporary state.

## Examples

- Soy francés. — I am French.
- Estoy cansado. — I am tired.
- El departamento está en Equipetrol. — The apartment is in Equipetrol.

## Common mistake

Wrong: Soy cansado.  
Correct: Estoy cansado.  
Reason: Tiredness is a state or condition, not an identity.

## Related rules

- grammar.verbs.ser-uses
- grammar.verbs.estar-uses
- grammar.adjectives.agreement
- contrast.ser-estar-adjectives