Final answer:
Ser and estar have different uses in Spanish to indicate characteristics, location, and possession.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing the uses of ser and estar in Spanish, there are several key distinctions:
- Ser answers the question when? and is used to indicate inherent qualities or characteristics of a person or thing. For example, 'María es alta' (María is tall).
- Estar tells where someone or something is located at the moment. For example, 'Estoy en casa' (I am at home).
- Both ser and estar can be used to indicate possession, but with different nuances. Ser is used for permanent possession, while estar is used for temporary or conditional possession. For example, 'Este libro es mío' (This book is mine, indicating permanent possession), and 'El libro está en mi escritorio' (The book is on my desk, indicating temporary location).
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