What is the difference between an Isthumus and a Strait?

An isthmus is defined as “a narrow strip of land with sea on either side, forming a link between two larger areas of land” by Google Dictionary. The same dictionary describes a strait as “a narrow passage of water connecting two seas or two larger areas of water.” So, the biggest difference is what they connect and how they do it.

One example of an isthmus is the Isthmus of Panama. This is a strip of land that connects North America to South America. It is also bisected by the Panama Canal for access to the sea on either side. One example of a famous strait is Strait of Dover. This is the narrowest part of the English Channel, which connects France and England.