Which term best describes playing in a singing style?

The term "cantabile" is specifically used to describe a style of playing that is lyrical, expressive, and song-like, closely resembling vocal performance. In music, when a piece or passage is marked as cantabile, it indicates that the performer should focus on the beauty of the melody, much like a singer would, emphasizing phrasing, emotion, and tonal quality. This term encapsulates the essence of singing, urging musicians to interpret the music with a fluid, flowing nature that is characteristic of vocal renditions.

Other terms mentioned refer to different styles and intentions in performance. For example, "marcato" suggests playing with an emphasized or marked style, almost staccato-like, which is opposite of the smoothness associated with singing. "Gracioso" indicates a playful or amusing style, often applied in a lighter context but lacking the singing quality. "Dolce," while conveying a sweet and soft tone, does not specifically focus on the lyrical aspect inherent in singing as much as "cantabile" does.