invece

invece

Instead; on the contrary.

In this case, 'invece' expresses an unexpected opposition or contrast to an anticipation.

Mi aspettavo che fosse gentile, invece si è comportato male.

I expected him to be kind; however, he behaved poorly.

Here, 'invece' highlights a difference between two subjects, drawing a comparison.

Lui studia scienze, invece sua sorella studia lettere.

He studies science, while his sister studies literature.

Here, 'invece' indicates a contrast between two ideas, showing an alternative occurrence.

Io volevo andare al cinema, invece sono rimasto a casa.

I wanted to go to the cinema; instead, I stayed at home.