That's a great question that touches on everyday city life! While the terms "trash can" and "litter bin" are often used interchangeably, there are some subtle distinctions in common usage, mainly related to design, context, and purpose.
A standard urban trash can is typically a larger, more robust container. You'll often find them fixed to the ground on sidewalks, in parks, or near buildings. They are designed for high-capacity waste collection from pedestrians and are meant to handle a larger volume of assorted rubbish. Their primary function is general waste disposal—people walk up to them to discard items they've been carrying.
A "litter bin," on the other hand, often implies a specific function: catching incidental litter. The term itself suggests its purpose is to prevent "littering." These are frequently smaller, more lightweight, and strategically placed in areas where people might be tempted to drop small items like wrappers, tickets, or cigarette butts—think along pathways, in transit hubs, or beside benches. Their design is geared towards convenience and encouraging proper disposal of small items on the go.
In essence, all litter bins are a type of trash can, but not all trash cans are specifically "litter bins." The trash can is the broader category for public waste receptacles, while "litter bin" often describes a smaller, more targeted unit focused on capturing loose litter and promoting tidiness in public spaces. The difference is more about nuance and intention than a strict technical specification.