* "Estar" (pronounced eh-STAR) is the most common way to say "are" when talking about temporary states or locations.
* Example: "Eles estão na praia." (They are at the beach.)
* "Ser" (pronounced sayr) is used to express permanent characteristics, identity, or origin.
* Example: "Ela é brasileira." (She is Brazilian.)
* "Ter" (pronounced tehr) is used with certain verbs to express possession or state of being.
* Example: "Eu tenho 20 anos." (I am 20 years old.)
It's important to note that "ser" and "estar" are often interchangeable in some contexts. For example, you could say "Ela é feliz" (She is happy) or "Ela está feliz" (She is happy) and both would be grammatically correct.
The choice between "ser" and "estar" depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Ser" emphasizes a more permanent state, while "estar" emphasizes a temporary state.