⇒ While both ser and estar can translate to to be in English, they aren't interchangeable in Spanish.
⇒ A simple way to remember some of the uses of estar is to think of the mnemonic device (something that helps you remember information) LoCo, which stands for Locations and Conditions. This article covers conditions.
⇒ Estar is used to express feelings or temporary physical condition.
⇒ A condition can be an emotion, a temporary physical state, or a temporary mental state, among others.
Estoy triste.I am sad. |
Ella está contenta porque recibió unas flores de su novio.She is happy because she received some flowers from her boyfriend. |
Estoy cansada esta mañana.I am tired this morning. |
Mis niños están enfermos hoy.My children are sick today. |
Mi padre está un poco loco.My father is (acting) a little crazy. |
Los estudiantes están muy confundidos.The students are very confused. |