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Difference between ser and estar in Spanish

Difference between ser and estar in Spanish

Differences between ser and estar in Spanish. Discover our comprehensive guide to learning the differences between the verbs ser and estar in Spanish.

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By Marta Díaz on Thursday, January 29, 2026

One of the biggest challenges for any Spanish learner is learning how to use and differentiate between the Spanish verbs ser and estar. The reason for this is that in many languages there is only one equivalent verb, for example, in English it is the verb to be. However, in Spanish we use two different verbs, each with its own uses and meanings.

At Enforex, we know that this can be an obstacle in your learning process, so we've put together this practical guide to help you learn how to differentiate between ser and estar in Spanish. If you're learning Spanish, mastering the verbs ser and estar is essential for communicating fluently in the language.

What are the differences between ser and estar?

The first hurdle for anyone learning Spanish is knowing when to use ser and when to use estar.

Although both verbs are usually translated as to be, they are not interchangeable. The main difference lies in how we understand the information we are giving. The verb ser is used to talk about something, such as its definition, identity, or characteristics. The verb estar is used to talk about how something is or where it is, such as its state, situation, or location.

A key question you can ask yourself to differentiate between them is:

The verb ser

The verb ser in Spanish is used to talk about permanent or stable characteristics, or to define people, objects, and concepts. It does not mean that they can never change, but rather that they do not change easily or depend on the moment.

The main uses of the verb ser in Spanish are:

1. Identity and definition: it is used to say who someone is or what something is. Examples:

2. Nationality and origin: used to indicate where a person or thing is from. Examples:

3. Profession and occupation: also used when talking about professions, although without an article in many cases. Examples:

4. Physical and personality characteristics: the verb ser also describes what a person or thing is like in general. Examples:

ser estar in spanish

5.Dates, days, and times: The verb ser is used for everything related to chronological time. Examples:

6. Personal relationships: To express family or social relationships. Examples:

The verb estar

The verb estar is used to talk about temporary states, emotions, specific situations, and physical location. It usually describes something that can change.

The main uses of the verb estar in Spanish are:

1. Physical and health states: to say how a person feels physically, the verb estar is used. Examples:

2. Moods and emotions: the verb estar is also used to talk about emotions. Examples:

3. Temporary situations: when something is momentary or depends on the context, the verb estar is used. Examples:

4. Location: The location of people and objects is expressed with estar. Examples:

5. Result of an action: When something is the result of a previous process. Examples:

The verbs ser and estar with adjectives

Some adjectives change meaning depending on the verb used. This is one of the most important points for Spanish learners.

SER ESTAR
Es aburrido (siempre) - He is boring (always) Está aburrido (ahora) - He is bored (now)
Es listo (inteligente) - He is smart (intelligent) Está listo (preparado) - He is ready (prepared)
Es bueno (persona) - He is good (person) Está bueno (comida / atractivo) - It is good (food / attractive)
Es nervioso (carácter) - He is nervous (character) Está nervioso (momento) - He is nervous (moment)
Es rico (tiene dinero) - He is rich (has money) Está rico (sabe bien) - It is rich (tastes good)

As you can see, the verb changes the interpretation of the sentence, not just the grammar.

verbs ser and estar in spanish

Practical exercise: complete using ser or estar

Below are some sentences for you to complete with the correct form of the verbs ser or estar in Spanish:

Before you start memorizing basic and isolated rules for the verbs ser and estar in Spanish, we recommend that you practice with exercises and real conversations or short phrases at the same time.

Mastering the verbs ser and estar will allow you to speak Spanish with greater accuracy and confidence in any situation and place. Also, remember that any of our intensive Spanish courses will help you, as you will have the support of expert teachers who will teach you all the tricks to master these verbs.

Solutions: soy, estoy, está, son, está, estamos, es, está, es, están.

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