Which term refers to a style of playing that resembles singing?

The term "cantabile" is used to describe a style of playing that is lyrical and singing-like. It encourages the performer to utilize a smooth, flowing style that emulates the qualities of a human voice. This instruction often appears in music for strings and woodwinds, where the player strives to produce a tone that is expressive and melodious, akin to vocal performance.

In contexts where music requires a more animated or lively character, as indicated by the term "animato," the emphasis is on speed and energy rather than lyrical quality. "Arco," on the other hand, specifically refers to bowing technique for string instruments, indicating to play with the bow rather than pizzicato (plucking the strings), without necessarily implying a singing style. The word "bewegt" translates to "moved" or "agitated," suggesting a sense of movement or animation, which may not necessarily evoke the smooth, melodic quality associated with singing.

Thus, cantabile stands out as the term most closely aligned with the idea of a singing style in musical performance.