Dear hesitant learner,
Should I use “ser” or “estar”? How do I apply them? These two simple verbs can cause a big headache. Instead of depending on dull grammar rules, we're using a method that will definitely make your learning easier. In this week's Thrives in Spanish post, you'll see real-world examples from influential Mexicans as we illustrate the difference between these verbs. By looking at personal introductions and portraits, you'll gain practical understanding of when to use each verb.
Within the "ser" and "estar" of the portraits.
Next, we are going to analyse the last portraits while keeping in mind the following key aspects:
The verb “ser” is used to describe a person’s origin, profession, or to identify someone. It expresses characteristics that are considered permanent or defining.
Él es un cantante. (He is a singer.)
Ella es de Culiacán, México. (She is from Culiacán, Mexico.)
Él es el protagonista de la película Amores Perros. (He is the protagonist of the movie Amores Perros.)
Ella es una de las ganadoras del Pulitzer. (She is one of the Pulitzer winners – a defining trait of her identity.)
The verb “estar” is used to talk about temporary states, conditions, or actions in progress. It is often used with locations, ongoing activities, and states that can change.
Él está viviendo en Madrid. (He is living in Madrid.)
Ella está trabajando en Madrid y México. (She is working in Madrid and Mexico.)
Special cases where both “ser” and “estar” can be used:
Él está soltero/ Él es soltero. (He is single – a present situation that might alter or a status you might view as lasting)
Fast QUIZer:
Complete the sentences with the correct form of "ser" or "estar".
Él ___ mexicano.
Él ___ viviendo en Madrid.
Él ___ soltero.
Ella ___ una artista, fotógrafa y videógrafa.
Ella ___ de Culiacán, México.
Ella ___ viviendo en Madrid.
Él ___ un actor, un productor y un director.
Él ___ de Guadalajara, México.
Él ___ el protagonista de la película Amores Perros.
Él ___ viajando entre Buenos Aires y México.
Ella ___ trabajando en Madrid y México.
Ella ___ una escritora y una profesora.
Ella ___ de Matamoros, México.
Ella ___ viviendo en Estados Unidos.
Ella ___ trabajando en el Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, entre otros.
Ella ___ una de las ganadoras del Pulitzer.
Understanding the difference between "ser" and "estar" is essential for mastering Spanish, especially when describing people, their origins, professions, and temporary or ongoing situations. Through the portraits of Mexican figures, we have seen how "ser" helps define identity and inherent characteristics (Ella es una artista, él es el protagonista de la película), while "estar" highlights changing conditions or actions in progress (Él está viviendo en Madrid, ella está trabajando en México).
Mastering these verbs takes practice, and sometimes, doubts arise that can slow down your progress. If you want to gain confidence and receive personalized guidance, consider booking an online class with one of the experienced Thrive in Spanish teachers. They can help clarify your questions, provide interactive exercises, and give you real-life examples to make learning more engaging and effective.
Keep working hard, and soon, choosing between ser and estar will feel natural!
Finally, meet Diego, your Spanish-speaking personal assistant. Unsure of how to start your language learning journey? In just a few minutes, Diego can assess your Spanish proficiency through a fun and interactive chat. Whether you're a complete beginner or fluent and looking to refine your skills, Diego will recommend the perfect course to match your goals. It's quick, easy, and highly enjoyable!
I hope to see you describing a famous portrait from your country Andrea Oliveros
Foreign Languages Teacher
❤️