Beginning Spanish ¡Empecemos por aquí!

Module A: Identities in different contexts  • 101 Lengua 2.1: Ser with descriptive adjectives In Lengua 1.2, we looked at using the verb ser in the context of identification and expressing origin. For example, Soy profesora. PSU es una universidad grande. ¿De dónde eres ? Soy de Denver. We also described classes, students, and professors using the verb ser . For example, Mi clase de arte es difícil. Mis profesores son inteligentes. Soy responsable. In these last three examples, the words difícil , inteligente , and responsable are adjectives. When we use the verb ser with an adjective, we are expressing an identifying characteristic or trait. Later, we will look at some differences between ser and estar . You may remember that both of these verbs translate as “to be.” One difference that is important at this step is the fact that ser expresses part of identity, whereas estar expresses a condition or state. In some sentences, both verbs work grammatically, but the meaning changes: Mi mamá es una persona nerviosa. My mom is a nervous person. Mi mamá está nerviosa. My mom is feeling nervous. For Lengua 2.1, we will focus on using the verb ser with adjectives, expressing identifying characteristics. 39 Ser (to be) Yo soy Tú eres Ella, él, usted es Nosotras, nosotros somos Ellas, ellos, ustedes son 39 Some might propose permanent versus temporary as a concept for distinguishing ser and estar . This can lead to many errors, and so it is not recommended. Instead, consider identity versus condition .