1. You have already learned that ser and estar both mean to be but are used for different purposes. These charts summarize the key differences in usage between ser and estar.
© by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.

2. © by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.

3. Ser de expresses not only origin (Es de Buenos Aires
Ser de expresses not only origin (Es de Buenos Aires.) and possession (Es la pluma de Jimena.), but also what material something is made of (La bicicleta es de metal.).
© by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.
5.3-3 3

4. © by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.

5. © by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.

6. Ser and estar with adjectives
With many descriptive adjectives, ser and estar can both be used, but the meaning will change.
© by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.

7. In the examples above, the statements with ser are general observations about the inherent qualities of Juan and Ana. The statements with estar describe conditions that are variable.
© by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.

8. Here are some adjectives that change in meaning when used with ser and estar.
© by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.

9. When referring to objects, ser seguro/a means to be safe.
El puente es seguro.
The bridge is safe.
© by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.
5.3-9 9

10. Alejandra está cansada.
Form complete sentences by using the correct form of ser or estar and making any other necessary changes.
Alejandra / cansado _________________________
ellos / pelirrojo _________________________
Carmen / alto _________________________
yo / la clase de español _________________________
película / a las once _________________________
hoy / viernes _________________________
nosotras / enojado _________________________
Antonio / médico _________________________
Romeo y Julieta / enamorado _________________________
libros / de Ana _________________________
Marisa y Juan / estudiando _________________________
partido de baloncesto / gimnasio _________________________
Alejandra está cansada.
© by Vista Higher Learning, Inc. All rights reserved.