estén
“estén” means “they are (located)” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
they are (located), you all are (located)
Also: they may be (there)
📝 In Action
Necesito que **estén** aquí a las ocho.
A2I need you all to be located here at eight o'clock.
No creo que las llaves **estén** en el coche.
B1I don't believe that the keys are in the car.
Es posible que **estén** de vacaciones ahora.
B2It is possible that they are on vacation right now.
they are (in a state), you all are (in a state)
Also: they are getting
📝 In Action
Llamaré para asegurarme de que todos **estén** bien de salud.
A2I will call to make sure that everyone is well (in good health).
Me alegra que **estén** contentos con su nuevo proyecto.
B1I'm happy that they are satisfied with their new project.
No quiero que las paredes **estén** sucias.
B2I don't want the walls to be dirty (a temporary condition).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: estén
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'estén' to express a desire?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb *estar* comes from the Latin word *stare*, meaning 'to stand' or 'to be established'. This origin explains why *estar* is often used for temporary location or condition—things 'standing' in a spot for a moment, unlike *ser* (from *esse*, 'to be'), which implies permanent existence.
First recorded: Old Spanish, before the 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'estén' have an accent mark?
The accent on **estén** (and all subjunctive forms like *esté*, *estemos*, etc.) is necessary to maintain the correct stress on the final syllable. Without it, the stress would fall incorrectly on the first syllable.
What is the difference between 'están' and 'estén'?
**Están** is used to state a known fact about location or condition (They are here). **Estén** is used when the location or condition is uncertain, desired, or doubted (I hope they are here).