Fuerte vs. poderoso vs. potente
The Spanish words 'fuerte', 'poderoso', and 'potente' all have connotations of being 'strong' or 'powerful', but are used in slightly different contexts which create subtle distinctions between them.
Fuerte
'Fuerte' is used to communicate the idea of physical strength, robustness, intensity, and sometimes emotional strength. It can be used to describe people, emotions, flavors, among others.
Ella es una mujer muy fuerte.
(She is a very strong woman.)
Este café es demasiado fuerte para mí.
(This coffee is too strong for me.)
Poderoso
'Poderoso' suggests a more abstract form of strength that tends to refer to power or having influence. It's usually used to communicate the idea of control or authority. Whether it's economic, social, military etc.
El presidente es un hombre poderoso.
(The president is a powerful man.)
Es una empresa poderosa en la industria tecnológica.
(It's a powerful company in the tech industry.)
Potente
'Potente' generally refers to potential or capability. It can be used to describe something or someone possessing great power, influence or effect, not limited only physical contexts.
Este medicamento es muy potente.
(This medicine is very potent.)
Es un argumento potente en favor de su candidatura.
(It's a powerful argument in favor of his candidature.)
Summary
In summary, while the three words can all mean strong or powerful, 'fuerte' commonly refers to physical or emotional strength or intensity; 'poderoso' signifies control, authority or dominance; and 'potente' expresses potentiality, capability or effectiveness.