grammar.verbs.ser-estar
Ser vs Estar
Use ser for identity, origin, classification, and stable description. Use estar for state, condition, location, and temporary situations.
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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.
I am French.
Region: global
Estoy cansado.
I am tired.
I am tired.
Region: global
El departamento está en Equipetrol.
The apartment is in Equipetrol.
The apartment is in Equipetrol.
Region: BO