How to easily conjugate the verb to be in Spanish

Spanish is a great language to learn but many get confused between the use of ser and estar. Both of these verbs mean to be in Spanish. In this post we take a closer look at the differences between ser and estar and when to use these verbs in the right context. 

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SER AND ESTAR

• “Ser” Conjugation 

Ser is the simple form of the verb and refers to what the actual subject is. It focuses on describing the characteristics of the subject or the thing we are referring to. 

When we take a closer look at the “ser” conjugation, we see that the verb refers to permanent characteristics or constant states. 

When you use ser we can say: 

English: Steve is a happy man. 

Spanish: Steve es un hombre feliz. 

• “Estar” Conjugation 

Estar is used when we talk about ‘the how’ of something. This means that “estar” is used when describing an emotion, an area, or an action. 

The use of the “estar” conjugation involves temporary states including emotions, geographical locations, idioms and expressions, and ‘temporary’ states or conditions. 

When you use estar we can say: 

English: Steve is in a positive mood. 

Spanish: Steve está de buen humor 

One’s mood or emotions can change throughout the day. Here we are referring to a temporary state. 

LET’S TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT ‘TO BE’ IN SPANISH IN THE FOLLOWING LIST

• Ser vs. Estar 

The primary difference between ser and estar as the ‘to be Spanish conjugation’ is subject permanence. 

SER IN PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Example 1: 

• Ese es un árbol alto. (That is a tall tree.)

Example 2: 

• Mi collar es de oro. (My necklace is gold.) 

Example 3: 

• Él es muy guapo. (He is very handsome.)

SER IN NATIONALITY

Example 4:

• Soy italiano/italiana. (I am an Italian.)

Example 5: 

• La fruta es de España. (The fruit is from Spain.)

ESTAR IN TEMPORARY PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Example 6: 

• Susan está de buen humor. (Susan is in a good mood.)

Example 7: 

• Estoy enfadado contigo. (I am angry with you.)

Example 8: 

• Hoy estoy dormido. (I am sleepy today.)

ESTAR IN LOCATION

Example 9: 

• Ayer estuvimos en el parque. (Yesterday we went to the park.)

Example 10: 

• Dónde has estado? (Where did you go?)

ESTAR IN PROFESSION

Example 11: 

• Soy camarero pero estoy estudiando para ser abogado. (I am a waiter but I am studying to become a lawyer.)

USING SER AND ESTAR

To understand the difference between ser and estar, it is important to practice by using the Spanish conjugations in the right context. Both ser and estar represent to be in Spanish; however, each of these differ in terms of permanence. By speaking Spanish more frequently, you will soon get the hang of using these verbs correctly. You will also understand how to apply ser and estar with confidence.

Now that you know how to easily conjugate the verb to be in Spanish, discover the definite articles in Spanish.

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