Introduction
The verb "estar" is an essential part of the Portuguese language, used to express temporary states, locations, and ongoing actions. It is one of the two main verbs in Portuguese that translate to "to be," the other being "ser."
Conjugation of Estar
| Person | Conjugation |
|---|---|
| Eu | estou |
| Tu | estás |
| Ele/Ela/Você | está |
| Nós | estamos |
| Eles/Elas/Vocês | estão |
Usage of Estar
1. Temporary States
Use "estar" to describe conditions or states that are temporary or subject to change.
- Eu estou cansado.
- (I am tired.)
- Ela está feliz.
- (She is happy.)
2. Location
"Estar" is used to indicate the location of a person or object.
- Nós estamos em casa.
- (We are at home.)
- O livro está na mesa.
- (The book is on the table.)
3. Ongoing Actions (Present Continuous)
"Estar" is used with the gerund form of the verb to indicate actions that are currently happening.
- Eles estão estudando.
- (They are studying.)
- Eu estou trabalhando.
- (I am working.)
Examples
Temporary States
- Estás doente?
- (Are you sick?)
- O café está quente.
- (The coffee is hot.)
Location
- A escola está perto do parque.
- (The school is near the park.)
- Meu pai está no escritório.
- (My father is in the office.)
Ongoing Actions
- Estamos assistindo a um filme.
- (We are watching a movie.)
- Ela está escrevendo uma carta.
- (She is writing a letter.)
Conclusion
The verb "estar" is crucial for expressing temporary situations, locations, and actions in progress in Portuguese. By understanding its conjugations and applications, you can communicate more effectively and accurately describe the world around you.