When to use ser or estar?

Question

What is the eaisest way for you to remember when to use ser or estar? I don't want any links!! Just let me know what helps you to remember. Thanks!

Hi MeiMei: In this forum,in the "search tab" type your question, For "ser and estar" you will find four pages of help and memory tricks to assist you. - pacofinkler, Jan 17, 2011

Answer 1

The simple rule: "ser" classifies, identifies and defines. It basically works like an equal sign (=)

Oops. That's a link. Apparently, the OP only wants information specifically tailored to her question. Perhaps under the misaprehension that this is a "new" question. - samdie, Jan 17, 2011

Answer 2

For me, i just remember that "ser" is permanent: "yo soy una mujer", o "Eres inteligente." It is used for character traits among other things. "Estar" is temporary: "Estoy cansada", "estoy en la casa"...etcetera.

"Estoy muerto" is not temporary, and "Mi hijo es menor de edad" is not permanent. What you call a rule fails more than 30% of the time, which is unacceptable for practical purposes. - lazarus1907, Jan 17, 2011

Come on Lazarus ! It works for her ! . She will find her way, with a little help from her friends. - Agora, Jan 17, 2011

Answer 3

What works with reasonable effectiveness with me is asking myself "is what I am describing a state, or a characteristic?"

"I am bored". This is not a characteristic of mine, it's a state that I am in. Estoy aburrido.

"I am boring". This is not a state that I am in, it's a characteristic. Soy aburrido.

Hope it helps you!

Answer 4

I agree with with luknngudd. It seems to work as a general rule, with exceptions that only practice will give you. The rule worked very well for my husband (a U.S. citizen) when he started learning spanish.

I will add another tip: use "estar" also for places or locations e.g.

Italia está en Europa.

La oficina de correos está en el centro de la ciudad.