The verb ESTAR in the present tense

Spanish: El verbo ESTAR en presente

Level: A1 Beginner

Category: verbs

Explanation

The verb "estar" is one of two Spanish verbs that mean "to be" in English. It is a very important irregular verb that you must memorize. Its present tense forms are: yo estoy (I am), tú estás (you are), él/ella/usted está (he/she/you formal is/are), nosotros estamos (we are), vosotros estáis (you all are), ellos/ellas/ustedes están (they/you all are). We use "estar" for three main things. First, to indicate the location of something or someone: "El café está en la plaza" (the café is in the square). Second, to describe temporary states or emotions: "Estoy cansado" (I am tired), "Ella está feliz" (she is happy). Third, to form progressive tenses: "Estoy comiendo" (I am eating). It is very important not to confuse "estar" with "ser". While "ser" describes permanent or essential characteristics (identity, origin, profession), "estar" describes temporary conditions and location. For example: "Soy alto" (I am tall - permanent) but "Estoy cansado" (I am tired - temporary). Remember that many forms of "estar" carry an accent mark: estás, está, estáis, están. Only "estoy" and "estamos" have no accent. Practice these forms because you will use them constantly in your daily conversations around the city.

Examples

• El cafe esta en la plaza principal. - The café is in the main square.
• Yo estoy muy cansado despues del viaje. - I am very tired after the trip.
• Las llaves estan sobre la mesa. - The keys are on the table.
• Disculpe, donde esta la farmacia? - Excuse me, where is the pharmacy?
• Nosotros estamos listos para pedir. - We are ready to order.