B1 — Intermediateconjunction
ovvero
or rather, that is to say, namely
Synonyms (≈ similar meaning)
ossiacioèvale a direin altri terminiovverosia
Antonyms (≠ opposite meaning)
al contrariodiversamenteinveceoppureo
Usage note
'Ovvero' clarifies or reformulates. 'Ossia' and 'cioè' are exact synonyms in this use. 'Vale a dire' is more formal. Do not confuse with 'oppure' (= or, either/or).
Example
"Il protagonista, ovvero il personaggio principale, è molto complesso."
"The protagonist, or rather the main character, is very complex."
Practice Italian grammar
Free exercises, mini-exams and placement test.