Which term means "suddenly" in musical notation?

The term "subito" is derived from Italian and it translates to "sudden" or "suddenly" in English. In music notation, it is often used to indicate a sudden change in dynamics, such as "subito piano," meaning to abruptly play softly from a loud passage. This term effectively conveys the notion of immediacy, which is particularly important in expressive playing and interpretation.

The other terms serve different purposes in musical terminology. "Smorzando" refers to a gradual fading away or dying down of sound, creating a more gentle decrease rather than a sudden change. "Staccato" indicates that notes are played in a detached or short manner, impacting the articulation of the notes rather than their dynamic level. "Sostenuto" implies a sustained or held tone, often conveying a sense of calm, prolonged sound rather than a sudden shift. Each of these terms adds its own distinct character to musical expression, but "subito" uniquely captures the essence of suddenness.