Percorso vs. strada
In Italian, 'percorso' and 'strada' are both used to describe ways, paths, or routes, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Percorso
'Percorso' typically refers to a specific route or path that is followed or traveled. It often implies a journey or a predetermined course.
Il percorso della maratona è lungo 42 chilometri.
(The marathon route is 42 kilometers long.)
Abbiamo seguito il percorso consigliato dalla guida turistica.
(We followed the route recommended by the tour guide.)
Il percorso formativo include tre anni di studio.
(The educational path includes three years of study.)
Strada
'Strada' generally refers to a road or street, but can also mean a way or path in a broader sense. It's often used for physical routes and can imply a more general or open-ended path.
Quale strada dobbiamo prendere per arrivare al centro?
(Which road should we take to get to the center?)
Ha scelto una strada diversa nella sua carriera.
(He chose a different path in his career.)
Troveremo una strada per risolvere questo problema.
(We'll find a way to solve this problem.)
Summary
While both 'percorso' and 'strada' can refer to paths or routes, 'percorso' is more often used for specific, defined routes or journeys, while 'strada' can refer to physical roads or more metaphorical paths in life. 'Percorso' implies a more structured or planned route, whereas 'strada' can suggest a broader, sometimes more open-ended way forward.