Unit 3: Introduction to the present tense and adjectives
3.5 Adjectives that Change Meaning with SER and ESTAR
These, among other adjectives, change meaning when used with ser and estar. This is not, however, a long list to be memorized; many of the uses with ser describe what is the norm or an inherent characteristic while those of estar reflect a condition or state that differs from the norm or is subject to change. Memorize the meanings of these phrases with ser and estar to make sure you can recognize them when they appear.
| ser | estar |
|---|---|
| ser aburrido – to be boring | estar aburrido – to be bored |
| ser (un) borracho – to be a drunk | estar borracho – to be drunk |
| ser distraído – to be absentminded | estar distraído – to be distracted |
| ser enfermo – to be an invalid | estar enfermo – to be ill |
| ser interesado – to be selfish | estar interesado – to be interested |
| ser libre – to be free (unrestrained) | estar libre – to be unoccupied |
| ser listo – to be smart, clever | estar listo – to be ready |
| ser nuevo – to be new | estar nuevo – to be different, new in appearance |
| ser orgulloso – to be haughty | estar orgulloso – to be proud |
| ser rico – to be rich, to taste good | estar rico – to be delicious |
| ser seguro – to be safe | estar seguro – to be sure |
| ser solo – to be lonely | estar solo – to be alone |
| ser verde – to be green, to be without experience | estar verde – to be unripe |
| ser vivo – to be sharp, alert | estar vivo – to be alive |
