What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
piazza
Example
The tourists enjoyed sitting in the piazza, watching the street performers. [piazza: noun]
Example
We had dinner at a restaurant in the piazza last night. [piazza: noun]
courtyard
Example
The hotel had a beautiful courtyard with a fountain in the center. [courtyard: noun]
Example
We sat in the courtyard of our apartment building to enjoy the sunshine. [courtyard: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Courtyard is more commonly used than piazza in everyday language, especially in residential and office settings. Piazza is more specific to Italian culture and may not be as commonly used outside of Italy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between piazza and courtyard?
While piazza is associated with a formal and cultural tone, courtyard is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
