Speaking Spanish – The official “Ask Dave” section

The Official “Ask Dave” About Spanish Section

Speaking Spanish Question:

“Hola Dave!

You mentioned in the newsletter that estar was used with feliz, which would make the most sense, as it’s a feeling. But I have some friends in Spain that I communicate with and they have used ser with feliz. Is it just a Spain thing?

Gracias…” Candice

Spanish Lesson/Explanation:

Hola Candice,

In certain instances, you can substitute “ser” for “estar” and vice-versa. Using one or the other can actually change the meaning of what you are trying to say.

Here are some examples using both:

• Ella está aburrida – She is bored and Ella es aburrida – She is boring.
• Él está enfermo – He is sick and Él es enfermo – He is a sick person or mentally sick.
• Ella está lista – She is ready and Ella es lista – She is smart (mentally ready).

If you say someone “es feliz”, since “es/ser” refers to permanent characteristics, it would mean that the person is generally a “happy” person on more of a permanent basis instead of being “happy” right now (está feliz).

For more in-depth information on “ser” and “estar” and all of their conjugations, as well as specific info on the difference between “temporary” and “permanent” characteristics, take a look at section “9. Characteristics” in your complete Visual Link Spanish™ course. It covers each verb in-depth and gives you a full idea of how they work.

Hopefully that answers your question.

¡Hasta luego!

Written by David S. Clark – President of Visual Link Spanish who says…

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Andrew Makarik

to@welovecostarica.com

Andrew Makarik is the main editor of WeLoveCostaRica, a fan of this sunny country. He is also a loving husband and a has a lovely daughter. By being a devoted family man and the biggest Costa Rica fan, he wants to make more people feel at home there. WeLoveCostaRica unites people and helps them find new home or a new travel destination. This website is a friendly community where everyone can find not only information, but also new friends and travel pals. Andrew is also passionate about IT and programming, so he himself maintains a friendly atmosphere in this cozy environment of WeLoveCostaRica.com.