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ser

to be

verb SEHR Common

Origin: From Latin esse.

Usage Note

Ser is used for permanent or defining characteristics: identity, origin, material, and time (Son las tres). It contrasts sharply with estar, which covers temporary states and location — a distinction that trips up learners at every level. The idiom o sea ('I mean / that is') is extremely common in spoken Spanish.

Examples

"Ella es médica."

Natural Translation

She is a doctor.

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