Ancho vs. amplio
The Spanish words 'ancho' and 'amplio' are adjectives often translated as 'wide' or 'broad' in English. Although they share some overlap in meaning, they have differing connotations and applications in Spanish language use.
Ancho
'Ancho' most directly translates to 'wide'. It is typically used to describe physical dimensions of an object or space, such as the width of a road or a river.
El río es muy ancho.
(The river is very wide.)
El coche no puede pasar porque la calle es muy estrecha, no es lo suficientemente ancha.
(The car can't get through because the street is too narrow, it's not wide enough.)
Amplio
'Amplio', while sometimes translated as 'wide', more commonly denotes 'broad' or 'extensive', especially in a more abstract or metaphorical sense. It is often used to define capacities, like knowledge, views, or experiences.
Ella tiene un amplio conocimiento de la historia del arte.
(She has a broad knowledge of art history.)
Este libro ofrece una amplia visión del problema.
(This book offers a broad view of the problem.)
Summary
'Ancho' and 'amplio' both have meanings relating to the concept of wideness or broadness. However, 'ancho' focuses on physical breadth or width of objects or spaces while 'amplio' is utilized more for its metaphorical implications. When talking about breadth or extensive range in an abstract sense like experiences, views or knowledge, 'amplio' would be the appropriate choice.