son
/son/
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Ellos son mis hermanos.
A1They are my brothers.
Las sillas son de madera.
A1The chairs are made of wood.
Ustedes son de México, ¿verdad?
A2You all are from Mexico, right?
Son las cinco de la tarde.
A1It's five in the afternoon.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
preterite
imperfect
subjunctive
present
imperfect
💡 Grammar Points
From the Verb 'Ser'
'Son' is a form of the verb 'ser', which means 'to be'. You use 'son' when talking about 'they' or 'you all' (formal or plural).
When to Use 'Ser' (and 'son')
Use 'ser' for things that are generally permanent or part of an identity. Think of the acronym DOCTOR: Descriptions, Occupations, Characteristics, Time, Origin, and Relationships.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'son' for Location
Mistake: "Mis amigos son en el parque."
Correction: Mis amigos están en el parque. For telling *where* something is located, always use a form of the verb 'estar', not 'ser'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Telling Time
To say what time it is for any hour except one o'clock, you always start with 'son'. For example, 'Son las dos' (It's 2:00) or 'Son las diez' (It's 10:00).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: son
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'son' correctly?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'son' and 'están'?
Both mean 'they are', but you use them in different situations. Use 'son' (from 'ser') for more permanent things like identity, profession, or characteristics ('Ellos son altos' - They are tall). Use 'están' (from 'estar') for temporary states and locations ('Ellos están cansados' - They are tired; 'Ellos están en casa' - They are at home).
Is 'son' always about multiple people?
Yes, when it's a verb, 'son' refers to 'they' or 'you all'. However, remember that it can also be a noun meaning 'sound' or 'tune', in which case it's a singular thing, 'el son'.