In English, explain the differences in meaning between the questions ¿Cómo está Raúl? and ¿Cómo es Raúl?

1 answer

The questions "¿Cómo está Raúl?" and "¿Cómo es Raúl?" differ in meaning primarily due to the verbs "estar" and "ser," which convey different aspects of being in Spanish.

  1. ¿Cómo está Raúl? – This question uses the verb "estar," which refers to a temporary state or condition. When you ask "¿Cómo está Raúl?" you are inquiring about Raúl's current emotional or physical state, such as whether he is feeling well, happy, upset, sick, etc.

  2. ¿Cómo es Raúl? – On the other hand, this question uses the verb "ser," which refers to more permanent or inherent characteristics. Asking "¿Cómo es Raúl?" seeks to understand Raúl’s essential qualities or traits, such as his personality, appearance, or nationality. It is about who he is as a person rather than how he is feeling at any given moment.

In summary, "¿Cómo está Raúl?" focuses on his current condition, while "¿Cómo es Raúl?" refers to his enduring attributes.