If you are learning Spanish, you’ve probably asked yourself: When do I use “ser” and when do I use “estar”?

This is one of the most common questions among Spanish learners. In this clear and practical guide, I’ll explain the difference step by step, with easy examples to help you never confuse them again.

When to use “ser”

We use ser to talk about:

1. Identity and permanent characteristics
   • Ella es profesora → She is a teacher.
   • Berlín es la capital de Alemania → Berlin is the capital of Germany.
2. Origin and nationality
   • Soy de Argentina → I am from Argentina.
   • ¿Vos sos alemán? → Are you German?
3. Profession or occupation
   • Mi hermano es médico → My brother is a doctor.
4. Time and dates
   • Hoy es lunes → Today is Monday.
   • Son las cinco de la tarde → It is five o’clock in the afternoon.
5. Definitions and relationships
   • Ellos son mis amigos → They are my friends.
   • Esto es un libro → This is a book.

When to use “estar”

We use estar to talk about:

1. Location
   • El museo está en Madrid → The museum is in Madrid.
   • ¿Dónde estás ahora? → Where are you now?
2. Temporary states (emotions, physical conditions, weather)
   • Estoy cansada → I am tired.
   • Ellos están contentos → They are happy.
   • Hoy está nublado → Today it is cloudy.
3. Actions in progress (estar + gerund)
   • Estoy estudiando español → I am studying Spanish.
   • ¿Qué estás haciendo? → What are you doing?

Quick Tricks

“Ser” = what defines you, what does not change easily.
“Estar” = what changes, what describes a state or situation.

Example:

• Soy feliz → I am a happy person (characteristic).
• Estoy feliz → I feel happy right now (temporary state).

Quick Summary

• Ser → identity, origin, profession, time, definitions.
• Estar → location, state, emotions, actions in progress.

Do you want to learn more tricks to improve your Spanish? Here I’ll tell you how music can help you on your learning journey.