The last time that I took
Spanish was in 1998 so I can't claim any proficiency in the language. Even back in 1998, my biggest accomplishments in Spanish class included memorizing the words to and singing along with "
A Una Cancion Para Mama" by
Boyz II Men. However, my lack of retention for the language actually helps my case here.
One of the few things I remember from my days of high school Spanish is the way to determine whether to use ser or estar. My teacher gave us acronyms that I haven't been able to forget to this day. Although the guy was a bit crazy, his acronyms actually worked. Now, it is with great honor (or honour, if you prefer) that I pass them down to you. TINMOPE and CHEL.
Ser: TINMOPE
- Time
- Identity
- Nationality
- Materials
- Occupation
- Physical/personality traits
- Equates nouns
Estar: CHEL
- Current state or condition
- Health
- Emotions/feelings
- Location