What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mortadella
Example
I would like a mortadella sandwich with provolone cheese and arugula. [mortadella: noun]
Example
The recipe calls for mortadella to be diced and added to the pasta sauce. [mortadella: noun]
bologna
Example
I'll have a bologna and cheese sandwich with mustard and pickles. [bologna: noun]
Example
The kids love fried bologna for breakfast on weekends. [bologna: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bologna is more commonly used than mortadella in everyday language, especially in the United States. Bologna is a staple in American cuisine, while mortadella is less common outside of Italian cuisine.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mortadella and bologna?
While mortadella may be associated with a more formal or gourmet tone due to its Italian origin, bologna is typically associated with a casual or everyday tone in American cuisine.