What does "marcato" signify in a piece of music?

In musical terminology, "marcato" is an Italian word that translates to "marked" or "emphasized." When a passage of music is marked with "marcato," it instructs the musician to perform those notes with a strong emphasis or stress. This means that the notes should be played more forcefully than surrounding notes, giving them a distinct prominence within the overall musical texture.

This emphasis can create a powerful and striking effect, helping to draw the listener's attention to those specific notes or phrases. Because of its inherent meaning of emphasis, "marcato" effectively shapes the character and intensity of the performance, making the correct option align directly with its definition. Other terms related to dynamics or articulation, such as playing softly, swiftly, or gently, encompass different musical expressions that do not convey the same sense of marked emphasis that "marcato" does.