esté
“esté” means “be” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
be
Also: is, am
📝 In Action
Espero que usted esté bien.
A2I hope that you are well.
No creo que el restaurante esté abierto.
B1I don't think the restaurant is open.
Avísame cuando yo esté en la lista.
B1Let me know when I am on the list.
be
📝 In Action
Esté tranquilo, por favor.
A2Be calm, please.
No esté triste, todo va a mejorar.
A2Don't be sad, everything will get better.
Esté preparado para la reunión de mañana.
B1Be prepared for tomorrow's meeting.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "esté" in Spanish:
am→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: esté
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'esté' to express a hope?
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
'Esté' comes from the verb 'estar', which traces back to the Latin word 'stāre', meaning 'to stand'. Over time, its meaning broadened from just standing physically to being in a certain state or location.
First recorded: Around the 10th century (for the root verb 'estar')
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'esté', 'está', and 'este'?
Great question! The accent mark is key. 'Esté' (accent on the last 'e') is the verb form we're talking about here (for hopes and commands). 'Está' (accent on the 'a') is the regular present tense form, meaning 'he/she/it is'. 'Este' (no accent) is a completely different word meaning 'this'.
Why can 'esté' mean 'I am' and also 'he is'?
In the subjunctive mood (the one for hopes and doubts), the forms for 'yo' (I) and 'él/ella/usted' (he/she/you) are exactly the same: 'esté'. You can tell who is being talked about from the rest of the sentence. For example, 'Cuando yo esté listo' means 'When I am ready'.