The verb "estar" is one of the two Spanish verbs that mean "to be" (the other being "ser"). "Estar" is primarily used to describe temporary states, locations, emotions, and ongoing actions. Below is a detailed chart that outlines the various uses of "estar," along with example sentences and their English translations.
| Category | Explanation | Example Sentence in Spanish | English Translation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Used to indicate where someone or something is physically or geographically. | Estoy en la oficina. | I am at the office. |
| Temporary State | Describes a temporary physical or mental condition. | Estoy cansado. | I am tired. |
| Emotions | Expresses how someone is feeling at a particular moment. | Estoy feliz. | I am happy. |
| Ongoing Actions | Used with the gerund (-ing form) to describe actions in progress. | Estoy estudiando. | I am studying. |
| Physical Condition | Describes how someone feels physically at a given time. | Estoy enfermo. | I am sick. |
| Weather | Describes weather conditions (used with third person, not typically with "yo"). | Está nublado. (It is cloudy.) | Not applicable to "yo" |
| Temporary Situations | Describes situations or conditions that are not permanent. | Estoy de vacaciones. | I am on vacation. |
| Relationships (Temporary) | Describes temporary roles or situations in relationships. | Estoy con mi familia. | I am with my family. |
| Health Conditions | Used to describe health conditions, often temporary. | Estoy resfriado. | I have a cold. |
| Subjective Descriptions | Indicates how something appears or feels temporarily. | La comida está deliciosa. | The food is delicious. |