Estar Conjugation
Estar is one of the two Spanish verbs meaning "to be." Unlike ser, estar is used for temporary states, emotions, locations, and ongoing actions. Mastering the difference between ser and estar is one of the most important steps in learning Spanish.
Full Conjugation Table
Example Sentences
Yo estoy cansado.
I am tired.
¿Dónde está el baño?
Where is the bathroom?
Ella estuvo enferma ayer.
She was sick yesterday.
Nosotros estábamos en casa.
We were at home.
Mañana estaré en Madrid.
Tomorrow I will be in Madrid.
Si pudiera, estaría contigo.
If I could, I would be with you.
Common Mistakes
❌ Using estar for permanent traits
Estar is for temporary states. Don't say 'Estoy alto' for 'I am tall' — use 'Soy alto' since height is permanent.
❌ Forgetting estar for location
Location always uses estar. 'El restaurante está en la plaza' — never 'es en la plaza'.
❌ Confusing estaba vs estuvo
Estaba (imperfect) describes ongoing states in the past. Estuvo (preterite) describes a completed stay or state with a defined end.
❌ Estar with professions
Professions use ser not estar. Say 'Soy médico' not 'Estoy médico'.
Quick Practice Quiz
Yo ___ muy cansado hoy. (I am very tired today.)