Lección 13: Verbos "ser" y "estar"

The purpose of this lesson is for you to learn the difference between the Spanish verbs “ser” and “estar” since in English they are written in the same way and it is essential that you know these differences so that you can understand the sentences with which I will give examples. You will be able to see the rest of the characteristics when you study the verbs independently. 

The verb ser is used to say that someone or something has a permanent quality. As a general rule, it is used with professions, qualifying adjectives, colors, and verbs in participles.

The verb estar refers to a more or less transitory, momentary state, although it can also refer to permanent situations, but in these cases its meaning is equivalent to remaining or being located in a certain place.

To master the correct use of these verbs, which are so difficult for English speakers, it is necessary to practice a lot, read or listen to conversations in Spanish because there is no valid formula to learn it only through theory. 

For example, if I say "Ella es feliz" (She is happy) it means that it is a general condition of that person's emotional state, on the other hand, if I say "Ella está feliz" I am saying that she is feeling that happiness at a specific moment in her life, that is, at this moment.

In the video that accompanies this explanation I have given examples of the same object with one and the other verb to help you better understand the difference.

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