Americano vs. statunitense
The Italian words 'americano' and 'statunitense' both refer to people or things from the United States, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Americano
'Americano' is a more general term that can refer to anyone or anything from the Americas, including North, Central, and South America. However, it is often used specifically for people or things from the United States.
Ho un amico americano che vive a New York.
(I have an American friend who lives in New York.)
Mi piace il cinema americano.
(I like American cinema.)
La cucina americana è molto diversa da quella italiana.
(American cuisine is very different from Italian cuisine.)
Statunitense
'Statunitense' is a more precise term that specifically refers to people or things from the United States of America. It is often used in formal or official contexts to avoid ambiguity.
Il presidente statunitense visiterà l'Italia il prossimo mese.
(The U.S. president will visit Italy next month.)
L'ambasciata statunitense a Roma ha emesso un comunicato.
(The U.S. embassy in Rome has issued a statement.)
Molte aziende statunitensi hanno sede in Europa.
(Many U.S. companies have headquarters in Europe.)
Summary
While 'americano' is more commonly used in everyday language and can have a broader meaning, 'statunitense' is more specific to the United States and is often preferred in formal or official contexts. Both terms are correct, but 'statunitense' leaves no ambiguity about referring specifically to the USA.