Ser and Estar

Question 1

What do we use ser for?

Answer 1

• Ser is used in a simple way, to talk about WHAT something is (permanent states), to describe characteristics that are an essential part of the thing we’re talking about.

Question 2

What do we use estar for?

Answer 2

• Estar is used to talk about HOW something is, so we use it for conditions, locations, emotions, and actions (temporary states).

Question 3

In what situations do we use ser?

Answer 3

• The hour, day, and date.
• Place of origin.
• Occupation.
• Nationality.
• Religious or political affiliation.
• The material something is made of.
• Possession.
• Relationship of one person to another.
• Where an event is taking place.
• Essential qualities (what makes this thing, this thing?).

Question 4

In what situations do we use estar?

Answer 4

• Geographic or physical location.
• State or condition (like emotions).
• Many idiomatic expressions.
• Progressive tenses (-ing).

Question 5

What is a good acronym for ser?

Answer 5

• D - Date
• O - Occupation
• C - Characteristic
• T - Time
• O - Origin
• R - Relation

Question 6

What is a good acronym for estar?

Answer 6

• P - Position
• L - Location
• A - Action
• C - Condition
• E - Emotion