Explanation

Quick Answer

While both ser and estar can translate to to be in English, they aren't interchangeable in Spanish.

  • Seris used to classify and identify permanent or lasting attributes.
  • Estaris used to indicate temporary states and locations.

If this general rule is too vague for you, think of the acronym DOT. Ser is used for:

  • Descriptions of a person or thing
  • Origins of a person or thing
  • Time

In this article we'll take a look at the D in DOT: Descriptions. Let's get started!

Descriptions with Ser

Ser is used for all permanent/long-term and personal descriptions. You can use ser to answer the question How would you describe ____?

In other words, ser is used with the essential qualities that define a person or thing and that are not likely to change in the near future. These can be names, physical descriptions, occupations, personal relationships, and religion, among others.

Names

examples
Soy Raúl.
I am Raúl.
Son Adela y Amalia.
They are Adela and Amalia.

Physical Descriptions

examples
Soy alta y delgada.
I am tall and thin.
Silvia es pelirroja y baja.
Silvia is red-headed and short.

Occupations

examples
Soy profesora de español.
I am a Spanish teacher.
Son jardineros.
They are gardeners.

Personal Relationships

examples
Anita es mi hermana.
Anita is my sister.
Aaron es su prometido.
Aaron is her fiancé.

Religion

examples
Juan es católico.
Juan is Catholic.
Mis padres son budistas.
My parents are Buddhists.
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