If there is something that terrifies both first-time students of Spanish and those who are already experienced, it is the difference between Ser and Estar.

In English, as in other languages, "To be" is a single verb. However, in other languages such as Spanish, Italian or French, a distinction is made between these two verbs. 

Today you are going to learn how to use it correctly. Are you ready?

Generally it has been said that the verb "Ser" is used to talk about permanent things but "Estar" is used for temporary things.

However, this belief is wrong, in this list you can find the most common uses.

 

SER

ESTAR

Adjectives related with the character/personality

Adjectives related with the physic

Names

Professions/Jobs

Hours

Materials

Nationalities

Origins of something or someone

Definitions

Events

Temporal adjectives

Places

Civil states (Except widow)

Present continuous

Passive voice

Adverbs

Value food