Arabile vs. coltivabile

The Italian words 'arabile' and 'coltivabile' both refer to land suitable for cultivation, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.

Arabile

'Arabile' refers specifically to land that can be plowed and is suitable for growing crops. It emphasizes the physical characteristics of the soil.
Questo terreno arabile è perfetto per coltivare il grano.
(This arable land is perfect for growing wheat.)
La regione ha vaste aree arabili che attendono di essere sfruttate.
(The region has vast arable areas waiting to be exploited.)

Coltivabile

'Coltivabile' has a broader meaning, indicating land that is suitable for cultivation in general, not necessarily just for crops that require plowing.
Il terreno coltivabile include aree per frutteti e vigneti.
(The cultivable land includes areas for orchards and vineyards.)
Questo terreno roccioso non è coltivabile senza interventi significativi.
(This rocky terrain is not cultivable without significant interventions.)

Summary

While 'arabile' specifically refers to land that can be plowed for crop cultivation, 'coltivabile' is a more general term for any land suitable for various types of cultivation. 'Arabile' focuses on the soil's ability to be worked with a plow, while 'coltivabile' encompasses a wider range of agricultural possibilities.