What term translates to 'robbed time' in music, allowing for expressive speeding up and slowing down?

The term that translates to 'robbed time' in music is "Rubato." This technique involves flexible tempo, where the performer may stretch or compress the timing of certain notes. By doing this, musicians can create a more expressive performance, emphasizing emotional nuances without adhering strictly to a metronomic pulse.

In contrast, the other terms do not convey this concept. "Adagio" refers to a slow tempo, implying a steady pace rather than fluctuations in timing. "Vibrato" pertains to a slight variation in pitch used to add warmth and expressiveness to a note, while "Forte" indicates a loud dynamic level, focusing on volume rather than timing. Thus, Rubato uniquely encapsulates the idea of manipulating tempo for expressive purposes in music.