Which term describes a lively and animated style of playing?

The term "Animato" describes a lively and animated style of playing, which aligns perfectly with the intent of the question. In musical terminology, "animato" is derived from the Italian word for "animated" or "lively," indicating that the performance should be executed with a spirited and energetic character. This direction encourages musicians to infuse their playing with vigor and interest, enhancing the expressiveness of the music.

In contrast, the other terms carry different connotations. "Ben" or "bene" suggests a nice or good performance but lacks the specific directive to play in a lively manner. "Bewegt," which means "moved" in German, encourages a certain emotional quality but does not explicitly denote the animated style that "animato" encompasses. Lastly, "Cantabile" refers to a singing style, emphasizing smooth, lyrical phrasing rather than liveliness or animation. Therefore, "Animato" stands out as the term that fully captures the essence of a lively and animated approach to playing.