soy
soy
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Soy de Argentina.
A1I am from Argentina.
Soy doctora.
A1I am a doctor.
Soy una persona muy tranquila.
A1I am a very calm person.
Soy el hermano de Ana.
A2I am Ana's brother.
💡 Grammar Points
'Soy' vs. 'Estoy': The Two 'To Be's
Use 'soy' for things that are part of your identity and don't change easily. Think of descriptions, jobs, nationality, and relationships. For temporary things like feelings or location, you'll use a different word: 'estoy'.
Leaving out 'Yo'
The word 'soy' can only mean 'I am'. Because of this, you can usually leave out the word 'yo' (I) and people will still know you're talking about yourself. 'Soy feliz' is just as correct as 'Yo soy feliz'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'Soy' for Location
Mistake: "Soy en la biblioteca."
Correction: Estoy en la biblioteca. Use 'estoy' (from the verb 'estar') to talk about where you are right now.
Using 'Soy' for Feelings
Mistake: "Soy cansado."
Correction: Estoy cansado. Use 'estoy' to talk about how you are feeling at the moment, since feelings can change.
⭐ Usage Tips
Introducing Yourself
'Soy' is perfect for introductions. After saying 'Hola', you can say your name, your job, or where you're from. For example: 'Hola, soy David. Soy programador y soy de Canadá.'
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: soy
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'soy'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the simplest way to remember when to use 'soy' versus 'estoy'?
Think of it this way: Use 'soy' for what you ARE (permanent traits like your job, personality, nationality). Use 'estoy' for how you ARE (temporary states like your mood, health, or location). 'Soy doctor' (I am a doctor) is part of my identity. 'Estoy enfermo' (I am sick) is how I am today.
Is 'soy' the same as 'ser'?
'Ser' is the name of the verb, like 'to be' in English. 'Soy' is just one specific form of 'ser'. It means 'I am'. So, you use 'soy' when you're talking about yourself in the present moment.