estarlo
“estarlo” means “to be it” in Spanish (referring to a previously mentioned state or condition).
📝 In Action
Ella parece muy feliz. Yo también quiero estarlo.
B1She seems very happy. I want to be [that way] too.
No puedes estar enfermo, pero si lo estás, debes decírnoslo.
B2You can't be sick, but if you are (it), you must tell us.
¿Es difícil ser bilingüe? No creo que deba serlo, pero hay que esforzarse.
C1Is it difficult to be bilingual? I don't think it should be [difficult], but you have to try hard.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: estarlo
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'estarlo' to replace the adjective 'preparados' (ready)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
'Estarlo' is a modern combination. The verb 'estar' comes from the Latin verb *stāre*, meaning 'to stand' or 'to be in a place.' The pronoun 'lo' comes from the Latin pronoun *illum* (meaning 'that, him'), which evolved into the general neuter pronoun used to refer to concepts or situations.
First recorded: The combination of infinitive + object pronoun is ancient in Spanish structure, though the specific combination 'estarlo' depends on context.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it 'estarlo' and not 'lo estar'?
When a Spanish verb is in its basic, unconjugated form (the infinitive, like 'estar'), or in the 'ing' form (the gerund, like 'estando'), the small helper words (pronouns) must physically stick to the end of the verb, forming one word. If the verb were conjugated (like 'estoy'), the pronoun would go before it: 'lo estoy'.
What is the difference between 'estarlo' and 'serlo'?
They both mean 'to be it,' but they follow the rules of 'ser' and 'estar.' 'Estarlo' refers to being in a temporary condition, location, or state (e.g., being tired, being ready). 'Serlo' refers to being an essential, permanent quality or identity (e.g., being intelligent, being a professional).