Learn Italian: Questo stipendio non basta per l'affitto. - This salary is not enough for the rent.

In English, we use the verb "to be" plus "enough." Italian has a specific verb for this: bastare (to be enough / to suffice). While you could literally say non è abbastanza, using the verb basta is much more natural and common in everyday Italian.

What is the subject of the verb basta here?

The subject is questo stipendio (this salary). The verb bastare conjugates to match the thing that is (or isn't) sufficient. If the subject were plural, like "these savings," the verb would change to match: Questi risparmi non bastano.

Is there a difference between stipendio and salario?

Yes, though both translate to "salary" or "wage." In Italy, stipendio is typically used for a fixed monthly salary (like an office job), whereas salario usually refers to hourly or daily wages, often for manual labor.

How does the word affitto relate to the verb "to rent"?

Affitto is the noun for "rent." If you are the landlord renting out an apartment, you use the verb affittare. However, if you are the tenant paying to live there, it is much more natural to say prendere in affitto (literally "to take in rent").