Spanish Phrase
Estoy cansado/a
Meaning
This phrase is used to express a state of physical or mental fatigue. It uses the verb 'estar' because tiredness is considered a temporary condition or state rather than a permanent trait. The adjective must agree with the gender of the person speaking.
When to use
Use this phrase whenever you feel exhausted after work, exercise, or a long day. It is appropriate in both casual conversations with friends and more formal settings.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Estoycansadoa
Estar
The verb 'estar' is used here because being tired is a temporary state of being.
Gender Agreement
Adjectives in Spanish change their ending to match the gender of the speaker: -o for masculine and -a for feminine.
🗨In Conversation
¿Quieres ir al cine esta noche?
Do you want to go to the cinema tonight?
No, gracias. Estoy muy cansada.
No, thanks. I am very tired.
✕Common Mistakes
Soy cansado
Use 'estar' for temporary states like tiredness; 'ser' is for permanent characteristics.
Estoy cansada (said by a man)
If you are male, the adjective must end in -o (cansado).
↔Alternatives
Tengo sueño
I am sleepy
Estoy agotado/a
I am exhausted
Estoy molido/a
I am worn out (informal)
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, it is common to express tiredness as a polite way to signal that you are ready to leave a social gathering. Note that 'tengo sueño' is specifically for sleepiness, while 'cansado' covers general physical fatigue.