ser
to be (permanent/essential)
Beginner Verb
🔊
Pronunciation
/seɾ/
💡
Cultural Note
Ser is one of two Spanish verbs meaning 'to be.' It expresses permanent or inherent qualities: identity, origin, profession, personality, and time. The distinction between ser and estar is one of the most challenging aspects of Spanish for English speakers, since English uses a single verb 'to be' for both.
📝 Example Sentences
Ella es doctora.
She is a doctor.
Somos de España.
We are from Spain.
Es importante ser honesto.
It is important to be honest.