Panino vs. sandwich
While both 'panino' and 'sandwich' refer to a type of handheld food in Italian, they have distinct characteristics and usage in the language.
Panino
'Panino' is the traditional Italian word for a sandwich, typically made with Italian bread and filled with various ingredients.
Vorrei un panino al prosciutto e formaggio.
(I would like a ham and cheese sandwich.)
Il bar serve panini freschi tutto il giorno.
(The bar serves fresh sandwiches all day.)
Sandwich
'Sandwich' is a borrowed English word used in Italian, often referring to pre-packaged or non-traditional sandwiches.
Ho comprato un sandwich al supermercato.
(I bought a sandwich at the supermarket.)
Il menu del fast food offre diversi tipi di sandwich.
(The fast food menu offers different types of sandwiches.)
Summary
'Panino' is more commonly used for traditional Italian-style sandwiches, while 'sandwich' is often used for pre-made or international-style sandwiches. 'Panino' is more prevalent in everyday Italian speech, whereas 'sandwich' is used in more casual or modern contexts.