Learn Italian: Non seguiamo le tendenze, bensì creiamo il nostro stile. - We do not follow trends, but rather we create our own style.

Bensì is a strong contrast connector meaning "but rather" or "on the contrary." You could use ma, but bensì is much more specific: it is used exclusively when the first clause is negative (Non seguiamo...) and the second clause offers a direct substitution or correction. It makes the contrast far stronger and more deliberate than a simple ma.

Is a comma always required before bensì?

Yes, just like with the English phrase "but rather," you generally need a comma before bensì. It clearly separates the negative premise from the contrasting positive statement that replaces it.

Why is the definite article used in il nostro stile? I sometimes see possessives without articles.

In Italian, possessive adjectives normally require a definite article (here, il). The main exception—which learners often mix up—is with singular, direct family members (like mia madre or tuo fratello). Since stile (style) is not a family member, the article is strictly required.

I've seen tendenza translated as "tendency." How do I know when it means "trend"?