A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Bolognese
Pronounce this Italian-inspired pasta sauce: boh-luh-NYAYZ.
bolognese
boh-luh-NYAYZ
/boʊ.lənˈjeɪz/ · boh · luh · nyayz
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's also common in home cooking discussions and grocery store aisles.
Where the word comes from
The word 'bolognese' refers to something from Bologna, a city in Italy. It's an adjective derived from the city's name.
Common ways people get it wrong
- boh-log-NEEZ This often happens because English speakers see 'log' and 'neez' and apply familiar sounds. Remember the 'gn' in Italian is like the 'ny' in canyon.
- boh-log-NAY-see This mistake adds an extra syllable and misplaces the stress. Focus on the 'nyayz' sound at the end.
Frequently asked
How do you say bolognese sauce?
The standard pronunciation is boh-luh-NYAYZ. It refers to a meat-based tomato sauce, often served with pasta.
Is bolognese Italian?
Yes, the term 'bolognese' means 'from Bologna,' a city in Italy. The sauce itself is a classic Italian dish.
What's the difference between bolognese and marinara?
Bolognese is typically a rich, meat-based sauce, while marinara is a simpler tomato sauce, often with garlic and herbs.
