How do you say "He was sad" in spanish?

Question

The question says it all. Do I need estar or ser?

estar unless the sadness was permanent. I think. - ian-hill, Mar 16, 2011

Answer 1

Not sure but

estar - Él estaba triste (temporary condition)

unless the sadness was permanent / meaning he was a sad person (in general)

ser - Él era triste.

I think but wait for an expert.

This was an expert answer. - Dakie, Mar 16, 2011

W O W - thanks Dakie - ian-hill, Mar 17, 2011

Excellent answer, Ian :) - FELIZ77, Mar 18, 2011

Answer 2

The correct translation can be one of the following:

Él estaba triste Él estuvo triste.

The difference is that when using estaba (imperfect), you do not specify whether he is still sad or not. If you use estuvo (preterite), it specifically means that he was sad, but not anymore.

Answer 3

You use the imperfect to: Describe Mental/Emotional States or Desires in the Past

** (El) Estaba** triste = He was sad (temporary state not a person's trait/characteristic)

You use estar and the imperfect is used to describe emotional states eg sadness, happiness, excitement

Ser would be used if you were describing the characteristics of a person;

Soy feliz = I am happy

(él) Es estudioso = He is studious

Ellos son amables = They are kind

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I hope this helps

Answer 4

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