Which term describes a smooth and connected style of playing?

The term that describes a smooth and connected style of playing is "legato." In music, legato indicates that notes are played in a flowing manner, with each note smoothly connected to the next without any noticeable breaks or gaps. This contrasts with other playing styles that may emphasize separation between notes, enhancing the continuity and expressiveness of the performance.

In contrast, the term "staccato" refers to a playing style where notes are played in a detached or separated manner, resulting in a sharp, crisp sound. "Grazioso" is an Italian term that conveys a sense of gracefulness or charm but does not specifically refer to the connection between notes like legato does. "Forte," on the other hand, indicates a loud dynamic level, unrelated to the smoothness or connection of note playing. Thus, legato is the term that accurately captures the essence of a smooth and connected style in music.