What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pottage
Example
The medieval peasants often ate pottage made from whatever vegetables were available. [pottage: noun]
Example
The chef simmered the pottage for hours to allow the flavors to meld together. [pottage: noun]
porridge
Example
I like to eat porridge with honey and cinnamon for breakfast. [porridge: noun]
Example
The Scottish dish haggis is traditionally served with neeps and tatties and a bowl of porridge. [porridge: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Porridge is more commonly used than pottage in everyday language. Porridge is a well-known and popular breakfast dish in many cultures, while pottage is less common and associated with historical or rustic cuisine.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pottage and porridge?
Neither pottage nor porridge is particularly formal or informal, and both can be used in various contexts without sounding out of place.