Batteria vs. pila
The Italian words 'batteria' and 'pila' both refer to electric batteries, but they have distinct uses and connotations in everyday language.
Batteria
'Batteria' typically refers to larger, rechargeable batteries or battery packs.
La batteria del mio smartphone dura tutto il giorno.
(My smartphone's battery lasts all day.)
Ho bisogno di una nuova batteria per la mia auto.
(I need a new battery for my car.)
Il computer portatile funziona con la batteria interna.
(The laptop runs on its internal battery.)
Pila
'Pila' usually refers to smaller, disposable batteries or cells.
Il telecomando ha bisogno di nuove pile.
(The remote control needs new batteries.)
Ho comprato una confezione di pile AA per il giocattolo.
(I bought a pack of AA batteries for the toy.)
L'orologio da parete funziona con una pila al litio.
(The wall clock runs on a lithium battery.)
Summary
While both 'batteria' and 'pila' mean battery in Italian, 'batteria' is generally used for larger, rechargeable batteries in devices like phones, laptops, or cars. 'Pila' is more commonly used for smaller, often disposable batteries found in items such as remote controls, toys, or watches.