Morte vs. decesso
The Italian words 'morte' and 'decesso' both refer to death, but they are used in slightly different contexts and have nuanced differences in connotation.
Morte
'Morte' is the more common and general term for death. It can be used in both formal and informal situations.
La morte di suo nonno l'ha rattristata profondamente.
(Her grandfather's death saddened her deeply.)
La morte è un tema ricorrente in molte opere letterarie.
(Death is a recurring theme in many literary works.)
Decesso
'Decesso' is a more formal or technical term for death, often used in official or medical contexts.
Il medico ha confermato il decesso del paziente alle 3:45.
(The doctor confirmed the patient's death at 3:45.)
Il decesso è avvenuto per cause naturali, secondo il rapporto ufficiale.
(The death occurred due to natural causes, according to the official report.)
Summary
While 'morte' is the more versatile and widely used term for death in Italian, 'decesso' is typically reserved for formal or official contexts. 'Morte' can be used in everyday conversation, literature, and emotional contexts, whereas 'decesso' is more likely to appear in medical reports, legal documents, or formal announcements.