son vs están

Question

ellos (son o están) muy activos

Glad you've joined the forum, Lauren. On homework, remember to give a try first and then others can help you with corrections. - katydew, Sep 22, 2013

Answer 1

In any event, both are correct. It just that the meaning depends on context.

Katy:

You already know the meaning of ser and estar. So, with that in mind I am going to say stuf in English.

The volcanoes are active in this very moment.

The volcanoes in this area are very active.

Same thing with kids, for example.

Would that help any?

Can you elaborate? I'm glad you brought this up since the difference in meaning would be helpful to me to understand. - katydew, Sep 22, 2013

As I'm thinking through this, does using ser make it a character trait and the use of estar a temporary activeness that is not typical? - katydew, Sep 22, 2013

See my edit. - chileno, Sep 23, 2013

Answer 2

Review this part of the website for estar:

Uses of estar: condition

And this part for ser

Uses of ser: descriptions

And this part for contrasting the 2:

Basic ser vs estar

This looks like homework. Edit you initial question with a choice and why and someone will help you.