Fort vs. puissant
The French words 'fort' and 'puissant' both translate to 'strong' in English, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Fort
'Fort' generally refers to physical strength, intensity, or high degree of something.
Il est fort comme un bœuf.
(He is as strong as an ox.)
Le café est trop fort pour moi.
(The coffee is too strong for me.)
Elle a une forte personnalité.
(She has a strong personality.)
Puissant
'Puissant' often implies power, influence, or capability, and is used for more abstract or impressive strength.
C'est une entreprise très puissante.
(It's a very powerful company.)
Il conduit une voiture puissante.
(He drives a powerful car.)
L'ordinateur a un processeur puissant.
(The computer has a powerful processor.)
Summary
While 'fort' is more commonly used for physical strength or intensity, 'puissant' often describes power, influence, or impressive capability. 'Fort' is more versatile and used in everyday contexts, while 'puissant' tends to have a more formal or emphatic tone.