Meaning
Used to confirm one's preparedness.
Cultural Background
In Spain, '¿Estás?' (Are you?) is often used as a shorthand for '¿Estás listo?'. The word 'listo' is sometimes used as an exclamation meaning 'Done!' or 'Fixed!' after repairing something. Argentinians might use 'Ya está' more frequently than 'Estoy listo' in casual settings to indicate they are finished with a task.
Gender Check
If you are a woman, always use 'lista'. It's the most common mistake for beginners!
The 'Ser' Trap
Calling yourself 'listo' with 'ser' might sound like you are bragging about your IQ!
Meaning
Used to confirm one's preparedness.
Gender Check
If you are a woman, always use 'lista'. It's the most common mistake for beginners!
The 'Ser' Trap
Calling yourself 'listo' with 'ser' might sound like you are bragging about your IQ!
Test Yourself
Choose the correct form for a woman speaking.
Hola, ____.
Women use the 'a' ending, and 'estar' is used for readiness.
Fill in the missing verb.
Nosotros ______ listos para la clase.
'Nosotros' requires the 'estamos' form of the verb estar.
Match the phrase to the meaning.
Ser listo vs Estar listo
'Ser' describes a trait (intelligence), 'Estar' describes a state (readiness).
Complete the dialogue.
Camarero: ¿Están listos para pedir? Cliente: Sí, ______ listos.
The client is likely speaking for a group, matching the waiter's plural question.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Ser vs Estar with 'Listo'
Practice Bank
4 exercisesHola, ____.
Women use the 'a' ending, and 'estar' is used for readiness.
Nosotros ______ listos para la clase.
'Nosotros' requires the 'estamos' form of the verb estar.
Ser listo vs Estar listo
'Ser' describes a trait (intelligence), 'Estar' describes a state (readiness).
Camarero: ¿Están listos para pedir? Cliente: Sí, ______ listos.
The client is likely speaking for a group, matching the waiter's plural question.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes! 'La cena está lista' is the standard way to say dinner is ready.
No, 'listo' is much more common in daily conversation. 'Preparado' sounds a bit more like 'well-trained'.
Related Phrases
Preparado/a
synonymPrepared
Terminado/a
similarFinished
Ya voy
builds onI'm coming
