When the verb "to be" is followed by a noun, the verb ser is always used. In this instance, it might be helpful to think of the verb as equivalent to an "equal" sign, such as a = b.
John is a doctor.
John = doctor.Juan es médico.
When the verb "to be" is followed by an adjective, the verb used depends upon the meaning. When referring to an essential characteristic, use ser. When referring to a state or condition, use estar.
La leche está fría.
The milk is cold.Los leones son grandes.
The lions are big.
When the verb "to be" is followed by an adjective, the verb can actually change the meaning of the adjective.
El señor está aburrido.
The mister is bored.El señor es aburrido.
The mister is boring.
To describe origin, or where something is from, use ser. To describe location, or where something is located right now, use estar. To tell where an event is taking place, use ser.
Mónica es de Argentina. (origin)
Mónica está en Venezuela. (location)
La fiesta es en la casa de Mónica. (taking place)
Let's review.
- When a noun follows the verb, use ser
- When an adjective follows the verb, decide between "essence" and "condition"
- To tell where something is from, use ser
- To tell where something is located right now, use estar
- To tell where an event is taking place, use ser
