Ser vs Estar in Spanish: Using ser in Spanish (not estar) to express an essential or permanent characteristic

Ser vs Estar in Spanish: essential characteristics

When we want to describe a permanent/essential characteristic of something or someone we use the verb ser (not estar). 

For example:

España es un país europeo.Spain is a European country.

Read and listen to other examples with the verb ser:

Yo soy baja.I am short.

¿Tú eres alta?Are you tall?

In the examples above, we use ser to talk about physical descriptions.

Antonio es un chico muy trabajador.Antonio is a very hard-working guy.

Nosotras somos estudiosas.We are studious.

Vosotros dos no sois sensatos.You two are not sensible.

¡Mis hermanos son fantásticos!My brothers are fantastic!

In the examples above, we use ser to talk about the character/personality.

See also Conjugate ser in the present tense in Spanish (El Presente) 

Want to make sure your Spanish sounds confident? We’ll map your knowledge and give you free lessons to focus on your gaps and mistakes. Start your Brainmap today »

Learn more about these related Spanish grammar topics

Examples and resources

España es un país europeo.Spain is a European country.
Nosotras somos estudiosas.We are studious.
Vosotros dos no sois sensatos.You two are not sensible.
¡Mis hermanos son fantásticos!My brothers are fantastic!
¿Tú eres alta?Are you tall?
Antonio es un chico muy trabajador.Antonio is a very hard-working guy.
Yo soy baja.I am short.
Thinking...