When we talk about these verbs the difference is not really in their meaning, but in their structure.
Sentir + nouns: we use it to express feelings and sensations. It answers the question: ¿Qué sientes? (What are you feeling?)
- Siento una gran felicidad por la graduación de mi hijo. I feel great joy over my son’s graduation.
- Todos sienten hambre ya que no han comido durante todo el día. Everyone feels hungry since they haven’t eaten all day.
Sentirse + adjectives/adverbs: we use to describe the way someone feels. It answers the question: ¿Cómo te sientes? (How do you feel?)
- Me siento feliz por la graduación de mi hijo. I feel happy over my son’s graduation.
- Todos se sienten hambrientos ya que no han comido durante todo el día. Everyone is feeling hungry because they haven’t eaten all day.
