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PortugueseCopula

Ser vs. estar

Ser = permanent essence. Estar = temporary state or location.

Ser for identity, origin, nationality, profession, time and inherent traits: Sou brasileiro. São quatro horas.

Estar for current states, emotions, and (in most varieties) location: Estou cansado. O livro está na mesa.

European Portuguese also commonly uses ser for permanent location of buildings/cities.

Examples

  • "Sou do Porto, mas estou em Lisboa esta semana."

    I'm from Porto, but I'm in Lisbon this week.