Hogaza vs. barra
The Spanish words 'hogaza' and 'barra' both refer to types of bread loaves, but they differ in shape, size, and traditional use.
Hogaza
'Hogaza' refers to a large, round, rustic loaf of bread, typically made with whole wheat flour.
La abuela cortó una rebanada gruesa de la hogaza recién horneada.
(The grandmother cut a thick slice from the freshly baked round loaf.)
En la panadería del pueblo, las hogazas pesan casi un kilo cada una.
(In the village bakery, the round loaves weigh almost a kilogram each.)
Barra
'Barra' refers to an elongated loaf of bread, similar to a French baguette, commonly used for sandwiches.
Compré una barra de pan para hacer bocadillos para el picnic.
(I bought a baguette-style loaf to make sandwiches for the picnic.)
La barra de pan crujiente es perfecta para acompañar la sopa.
(The crusty baguette is perfect to accompany the soup.)
Summary
While both 'hogaza' and 'barra' are types of bread loaves, 'hogaza' is a large, round, rustic loaf, whereas 'barra' is an elongated loaf similar to a baguette. 'Hogaza' is often associated with traditional, homemade bread, while 'barra' is more common for everyday use and sandwiches.