Stare vs essere

For the most part, I understand the difference between stare and essere in lesson 3.9.  However, I'm confused by two examples.  “We are sitting down right now” can be either "siamo seduti adesso" or “stiamo seduti adesso”, which is translated exactly the same with a parenthetical note “of our own volition.”  Similarly, “state in piedi tutto il giorno” is translated as “you are standing up all day” (of your own volition).  

Exactly what is meant by “of your own volition”?  Presumably if we are sitting down right now, ("siamo seduti adesso") we have chosen to do so, unless we are chained to our seats…   Is it the length of time we are sitting?  The actual act of sitting - going from a standing position to a sitting position?

Appreciate your help on this one - grazie!

Ciao Susan! 

I can understand why this might be confusing, as both "essere" and "stare" can be used in some cases to indicate a temporary state or action. Let's clarify the usage in these examples:

• - "Siamo seduti adesso" - "We are sitting down right now." In this sentence, "essere" (siamo) is used to indicate a temporary state. It means that at this moment, you are in a seated position. This could imply that you have chosen to sit down, but it doesn't necessarily emphasize the choice; it's more about describing your current state.
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• - "Stiamo seduti adesso" - "We are sitting down right now." Here, "stare" (stiamo) is also used to indicate a temporary action happening at the moment. It emphasizes the ongoing act of sitting down. While it can imply your choice to sit, it focuses more on the action itself.
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In both cases, the difference is subtle. "Essere" tends to emphasize the current state or condition, while "stare" emphasizes the action happening at the moment. In everyday conversation, Italians might use either, and the meaning is generally clear from the context.

As for "of your own volition," it's more about emphasizing that the action is not forced by external circumstances or obligations. If you are sitting down, it's because you chose to sit down, not because someone told you to or because you're forced to by some external factor. Similarly, if someone is standing up all day, it's because they have chosen to do so, not because they are forced to.

• - "Essere" typically describes a state or condition that is more permanent or inherent. When you say "siamo seduti adesso," it means "we are seated right now" in a general sense. It doesn't necessarily imply you actively decided to sit down at that very moment; you are just stating the fact that you are currently in a seated position.
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• - "Stare," on the other hand, is often used to describe a temporary state or an action that you are actively doing at a specific moment. When you say "stiamo seduti adesso," it means "we are sitting down right now." This form of the verb "stare" emphasizes the action itself and suggests that you have recently or actively chosen to sit down.

So, it's not about the length of time you are sitting or standing or the process of sitting down; it's about the voluntary nature of the action.

Grazie mille!  Ho capito meglio adesso.