Which term best describes a joint that connects bones via cartilage?

The term that best describes a joint connecting bones via cartilage is "cartilaginous joint." This type of joint allows for limited movement and is characterized by the presence of cartilage between the connecting bones.

Cartilaginous joints can take two main forms: primary (or synchondroses), which are connected by hyaline cartilage, and secondary (or symphyses), which are connected by fibrocartilage.

In this case, while "symphysis" refers specifically to a certain type of cartilaginous joint (such as the pubic symphysis in the pelvis), it does not encompass all cartilaginous joints. The broader category is more accurately described as "cartilaginous joint," as it includes both types.

The other options pertain to different concepts. A suture is a type of fibrous joint found in the skull that does not involve cartilage at all. A joint capsule surrounds and encases the entire joint, not specifically relating to the type of connective tissue. Therefore, the most encompassing and accurate answer, considering all cartilaginous connections, is "cartilaginous joint."