Estan in Spanish: Everything You Need to Know
As one of the most commonly used words in the Spanish language, “están” is definitely a term you will encounter frequently when learning or speaking Spanish. Understanding its meaning, usage, and variations is important if you want to become proficient in the language. In this article, we will explore every aspect of the word “están” and provide valuable insights that will help you communicate effectively in Spanish.
Meaning of “Están”
Simply put, “están” is the third person plural form of the verb “estar,” which means ‘to be’ in English. Thus, “están” translates to “they are” in English. It is used to describe the temporary or non-permanent state of things, such as location, feeling, condition, and situation.
Usage of “Están”
As mentioned earlier, “están” is used to describe the temporary state of things. Below are some examples of how to use “están” correctly in context:
1. Location:
“Están en el parque” means “They are in the park.”
“¿Dónde están tus llaves?” means “Where are your keys?”
2. Condition:
“Están cansados” means “They are tired.”
“Están enfermos” means “They are sick.”
3. Feelings:
“Están felices” means “They are happy.”
“Están tristes” means “They are sad.”
4. Situation:
“Están en una reunión” means “They are in a meeting.”
“Las cosas están difíciles” means “Things are difficult.”
Variations of “Están”
As with many Spanish words, “están” undergoes changes depending on the context and the tense of the sentence. Below are variations of “están” and how they are used:
1. Future tense
“Estarán” is the future tense of “estar,” which means “they will be” in English. It is used to describe a future state of being, such as location, condition, and situation.
“Estarán en la playa” means “They will be at the beach.”
“Estarán cansados mañana” means “They will be tired tomorrow.”
2. Present progressive
The present progressive form of “estar” is used to describe an ongoing action or activity. It is formed by combining the present tense of “estar” with the present participle of the main verb.
“Están comiendo” means “They are eating.”
“Están hablando” means “They are talking.”
3. Imperfect tense
The imperfect tense of “estar” is used to describe past actions or states that were ongoing or repeated in the past.
“Estaban comiendo cuando llegué” means “They were eating when I arrived.”
“Estaban hablando cada noche” means “They were talking every night.”
4. Present perfect tense
The present perfect tense of “estar” is used to describe actions that have occurred in the past and have a present relevance.
“Están trabajando mucho últimamente” means “They have been working hard lately.”
“Están viviendo aquí desde hace dos años” means “They have been living here for two years.”
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Conclusion
Learning the various forms of “estar” including “están” is an essential part of mastering the Spanish language. As you have seen, “están” has many uses and forms that are important to understand if you want to communicate effectively in Spanish. By practicing with different examples and situations, you will be able to use “están” confidently and accurately. Happy learning!