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Question

Difficulty: MediumSer vs. Estar Distinction in Descriptions and States

Read the following excerpt from a student's travel blog:

'El volcán Arenal _____ una de las atracciones más populares de Costa Rica. _____ en la provincia de Alajuela y, cuando lo visitamos, el cielo _____ muy nublado.'

Which of the following sets of verbs correctly completes the blanks in the excerpt?

  1. A
    está, es, era
  2. B
    es, está, era
  3. es, está, estabaAnswer
  4. D
    es, es, estaba

Answer

The correct set of verbs is 'es, está, estaba'.
The first blank requires 'es' (ser) because it identifies what the subject is. The second blank requires 'está' (estar) because it states a physical location. The third blank requires 'estaba' (estar) because it describes a temporary condition (cloudiness).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the first blank: '_____ una de las atracciones...'
The verb must define or identify what the volcano is. The verb 'ser' (es) is required.
'Ser' is used for defining characteristics, identity, and classification.
2
Analyze the second blank: '_____ en la provincia de Alajuela...'
The verb must indicate the geographical location of the volcano. The verb 'estar' (está) is required.
'Estar' is always used to express the physical location of people, places, or things (excluding events).
3
Analyze the third blank: 'el cielo _____ muy nublado.'
The verb must describe a temporary physical state or weather condition. The verb 'estar' (estaba) is required.
'Estar' is used for states, conditions, and feelings that are temporary or subject to change.

Key Concept

The verb 'ser' is used for identity, defining characteristics, and origin, while 'estar' is used for geographical location and temporary states or conditions.

Hints

1
Consider the specific purpose of each blank: identity, physical location, and temporary state.
2
Remember that the location of physical entities (like mountains or cities) always requires a specific verb, even if that location is permanent.
3
Use 'ser' for inherent characteristics and 'estar' for geographic location and temporary conditions.

Practice More

Practice distinguishing between 'ser' and 'estar' when describing the location of an event versus the location of a building.

Alternative Method

You can use the acronym DOCTOR (Description, Occupation, Characteristic, Time, Origin, Relationship) for 'ser' and PLACE (Position, Location, Action, Condition, Emotion) for 'estar' to determine the correct verb for each blank.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Ser vs. Estar Distinction in Descriptions and States

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