In Spanish, there are two different verbs to express the verb To Be: SER and ESTAR. Depending on the situation, or the kind of information we are giving, we should use one or the other. There are a few rules about when to use each verb. If you want to know more about the form and some basic uses of the verb SER, our post about the verb TO BE in Spanish will be helpful. You'll also find an online exercise to practice this important verb.
However, today we want to make things as easy as they can get. Rules can be sometimes a little confusing and ambiguous. That's why, in this post, we are only focusing on phrases that always go with SER and the ones that are always accompanied by ESTAR.
As you can see in the image, there are at least 7 phrases that always follow the verb SER:
There are also some fixed phrases that always go with the verb ESTAR:
The difference between SER and ESTAR in Spanish is always a difficult grammar point. Most students have problems to use these two verbs correctly. But don't worry! If you need extra help, our team of Spanish native teachers are experts in doing so! Want to try our Skype Spanish Lessons? You can request your trial class now!