Descriptors that could be both ser or esta depending on context

Question

In the example "Usted está pálido", I might be referring to someone looking unwell, correct? However, if I was pointing out that someone is pale because they are very white skinned just by nature and I was describing them to a friend, I would say "El es muy pálido", correct? And use the ser conjugation?

Accepted Answer

Hola Nikhil
Yes, you are correct. The choice between "ser" and "estar" in Spanish depends on the context and the specific descriptor being used.

"Estar" is used for temporary conditions (e.g., being pale due to illness), while "ser" is used for inherent qualities (e.g., being naturally pale). The context determines which verb to use, and this distinction is crucial for conveying the right meaning in Spanish.
Un saludo
Silvia