Carta vs. cartina vs. mappa vs. pianta
In Italian, 'carta', 'cartina', 'mappa', and 'pianta' all relate to maps, but they have distinct uses and nuances.
Carta
'Carta' or 'carta geografica' is a general term for map, often used for larger scale maps or charts.
Ho bisogno di una carta stradale per il viaggio.
(I need a road map for the trip.)
La carta geografica dell'Europa è appesa al muro.
(The map of Europe is hanging on the wall.)
Cartina
'Cartina' typically refers to a smaller, more detailed map or a map of a specific area.
Hai una cartina del centro storico?
(Do you have a map of the historic center?)
La cartina del parco mostra tutti i sentieri.
(The park map shows all the trails.)
Mappa
'Mappa' is a versatile term that can refer to various types of maps, including digital ones.
Ho controllato la mappa sul mio smartphone.
(I checked the map on my smartphone.)
La mappa del tesoro era nascosta nel libro.
(The treasure map was hidden in the book.)
Pianta
'Pianta' specifically refers to a plan or layout, often of a building, city, or garden.
L'architetto ha disegnato la pianta della casa.
(The architect drew the floor plan of the house.)
La pianta della città mostra tutte le strade principali.
(The city plan shows all the main streets.)
Summary
While all four words relate to maps, 'carta' is used for larger maps, 'cartina' for smaller or more detailed maps, 'mappa' for various types including digital maps, and 'pianta' specifically for layouts or plans of buildings or cities.