Which term indicates sudden forceful attack on a note?

• A. Giusto
• B. Sforzando
• C. Marcato
• D. Unison

Answer: (B)

An abrupt, forceful start on a note is shown through a sudden accent. Sforzando, often written as sfz, means to strike the note or chord with a sudden burst of emphasis and then typically soften quickly. This makes the attack feel explosive and immediate, distinguishing it from a steady or evenly stressed mark. Marcato also signals strong emphasis, but it refers to a pointed, pronounced attack across notes rather than an abrupt, single burst. Giusto means playing in proper tempo, and Unison describes multiple parts sounding together—neither of these indicate a sudden attack. So the term that conveys that sharp, sudden onset is sforzando.