Distretto vs. quartiere
The Italian words 'distretto' and 'quartiere' both relate to divisions within a city or town, but they have distinct meanings and uses.
Distretto
'Distretto' typically refers to a larger administrative or governmental district. It often denotes an official division for legal, political, or administrative purposes.
Il distretto finanziario di Milano è il centro economico della città.
(The financial district of Milan is the economic center of the city.)
Il distretto scolastico comprende diverse scuole della zona.
(The school district includes several schools in the area.)
Quartiere
'Quartiere' usually refers to a neighborhood or a smaller, more residential area within a city. It often has a distinct character or community feel.
Il quartiere Trastevere è famoso per i suoi ristoranti e la vita notturna.
(The Trastevere neighborhood is famous for its restaurants and nightlife.)
Vivo in un quartiere tranquillo alla periferia della città.
(I live in a quiet neighborhood on the outskirts of the city.)
Summary
While 'distretto' is often used for larger, official divisions with administrative purposes, 'quartiere' typically refers to smaller, community-oriented neighborhoods within a city. 'Distretto' might be used in formal contexts, while 'quartiere' is more common in everyday conversations about where people live or spend time in a city.