[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: particular
Target surface form: particular
Context:
3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's <t>particular</t> district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=particular%5:00:00:specific:00 | definition=unique or specific to a person or thing or category | synonyms=peculiar, special | examples=the particular demands of the job; has a particular preference for Chinese art
2. sense_key=particular%5:00:02:specific:00 | definition=separate and distinct from others of the same group or category | examples=interested in one particular artist; a man who wishes to make a particular woman fall in love with him
3. sense_key=particular%5:00:00:uncommon:00 | definition=surpassing what is common or usual or expected | synonyms=especial, exceptional, special | examples=he paid especial attention to her; exceptional kindness
4. sense_key=particular%5:00:00:primary:00 | definition=first and most important | synonyms=special | examples=his special interest is music; she gets special (or particular) satisfaction from her volunteer work
5. sense_key=particular%5:00:00:fastidious:00 | definition=exacting especially about details | synonyms=finical, finicky, fussy, picky | examples=a finicky eater; fussy about clothes
6. sense_key=particular%5:00:00:careful:00 | definition=providing specific details or circumstances | examples=a particular description of the room

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 2}
```

The word "particular" in this context refers to the voter's specific, distinct district/state as opposed to other districts/states mentioned in the passage ("other districts/states and their legislators"). The sense of separation and distinction from others in the same group is the most fitting interpretation.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the target word "particular" in the context provided.

The sentence is: "Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's <t>particular</t> district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits."

In this context, "particular" means the specific district/state belonging to the voter in question. It's referring to a specific, distinct thing - the voter's own district/state as opposed to other districts/states.

Let me examine each sense:

1. "unique or specific to a person or thing or category" - This could fit, as it refers to something specific/unique to the voter's own district/state.

2. "separate and distinct from others of the same group or category" - This fits well. The phrase "the voter's particular district/state" means the specific, distinct district/state (as opposed to other districts/states mentioned). This sense emphasizes the distinction from others in the same group.

3. "surpassing what is common or usual or expected" - This doesn't fit. There's no implication that the voter's district is exceptional or unusual.

4. "first and most important" - This doesn't fit. There's no sense that the voter's district is more important than others.

5. "exacting especially about details" - This doesn't fit at all. It's not describing someone being fastidious or particular about being picky.

6. "providing specific details or circumstances" - This doesn't fit well. It's not about a description.

Between sense 1 and 2, both could work, but sense 2 ("separate and distinct from others of the same group or category") seems to be the best fit because the context explicitly contrasts "the voter's particular district/state" with "other districts/states." The word is emphasizing the distinction from other similar things in the group.
Sense 2 is the strongest match here. The passage directly contrasts the voter's own district/state against other districts/states, making the distinction between them the central meaning.


attempt_kind: initial

status: success

[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: president
Target surface form: president
Context:
3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a <t>president</t> is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=president%1:18:01:: | definition=an executive officer of a firm or corporation
2. sense_key=president%1:18:04:: | definition=the person who holds the office of head of state of the United States government | synonyms=President of the United States, United States President, Chief Executive | examples=the President likes to jog every morning
3. sense_key=president%1:18:00:: | definition=the chief executive of a republic
4. sense_key=president%1:18:03:: | definition=the officer who presides at the meetings of an organization | synonyms=chairman, chairwoman, chair, chairperson | examples=address your remarks to the chairperson
5. sense_key=president%1:18:02:: | definition=the head administrative officer of a college or university | synonyms=prexy
6. sense_key=president%1:04:04:: | definition=the office of the United States head of state | synonyms=President of the United States, Chief Executive | examples=a President is elected every four years

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

finish_reason: stop

role: assistant

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context to determine the correct sense of "president" in this passage.

The context is discussing a "GOP president" and their ability to "limit local benefits" and "prevent other districts/states...from bringing home the local benefits." This is clearly referring to the head of government of the United States.

Let me examine the candidate senses:

1. sense_key=president%1:18:01:: - an executive officer of a firm or corporation - NOT this, clearly not about a corporate president

2. sense_key=president%1:18:04:: - the person who holds the office of head of state of the United States government - This fits! The examples mention "the President likes to jog every morning" which refers to the US President. The context is discussing a "GOP president" making national policy decisions affecting the entire country.

3. sense_key=president%1:18:00:: - the chief executive of a republic - This is more general and could apply to any republic's chief executive, but the context specifically discusses "White House" and "GOP president" which is clearly the US President.

4. sense_key=president%1:18:03:: - the officer who presides at the meetings of an organization - NOT this, not about organizational leadership

5. sense_key=president%1:18:02:: - the head administrative officer of a college or university - NOT this, clearly not about an academic president

6. sense_key=president%1:18:04:: - the office of the United States head of state (note: this is about the office, not the person) - This could work but it's about the office itself, not the person holding it.

The best fit is sense 2 (president%1:18:04::) because:
- The context mentions "races for the White House" which is specifically the US presidency
- It discusses a "GOP president" making national policy decisions
- The context is about the head of state of the United States government specifically
- The synonyms "President of the United States" directly match the context
- The answer is sense index 2.

type: thinking

currency: USD


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: likely
Target surface form: likely
Context:
3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also <t>likely</t> to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=likely%3:00:00:: | definition=has a good chance of being the case or of coming about | examples=these services are likely to be available to us all before long; she is likely to forget
2. sense_key=likely%3:00:04:: | definition=likely but not certain to be or become true or real | synonyms=probable | examples=a likely result; he foresaw a probable loss
3. sense_key=likely%5:00:00:prospective:00 | definition=expected to become or be; in prospect | synonyms=potential | examples=potential clients
4. sense_key=likely%5:00:00:credible:00 | definition=within the realm of credibility | examples=not a very likely excuse

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

In the context, "likely" modifies the verb phrase "to be more effective," expressing that there is a good probability that a GOP president will be effective at preventing other districts from bringing home local benefits. This aligns with sense 1, which defines "likely" as having "a good chance of being the case or of coming about." The examples in sense 1 ("these services are likely to be available"; "she is likely to forget") parallel the structure and meaning in the target sentence.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the target word "likely" in the context provided.

The sentence is: "Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits."

In this context, "likely" means that there's a good probability or reasonable expectation that a GOP president will be effective at preventing other districts/states from bringing home local benefits.

Let me examine each candidate sense:

1. **sense_key=likely%3:00:00::**: "has a good chance of being the case or of coming about" with examples like "these services are likely to be available to us all before long; she is likely to forget". This sense indicates something that has a good probability of happening.

2. **sense_key=likely%3:00:04::**: "likely but not certain to be or become true or real" with synonyms "probable" and examples "a likely result; he foresaw a probable loss". This is very similar to sense 1, emphasizing probability.

3. **sense_key=likely%5:00:00:prospective:00**: "expected to become or be; in prospect" with synonyms "potential" and examples "potential clients". This is about something that is potential or expected in the future, like a client who might become actual.

4. **sense_key=likely%5:00:00:credible:00**: "within the realm of credibility" with examples "not a very likely excuse". This is about whether something is believable or credible.

In the context of the sentence, "likely" is being used to express that a GOP president will probably/probably be effective. This is best captured by senses 1 or 2.
The phrase "is also likely to be more effective" expresses probability of a future action, which aligns closely with both senses. Sense 1 appears to be the primary definition capturing the general notion of having a good chance of occurring, making it the most appropriate choice.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: effective
Target surface form: effective
Context:
3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more <t>effective</t> at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=effective%3:00:00:: | definition=producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect; -LewisMumford | synonyms=effectual, efficacious | examples=an air-cooled motor was more effective than a witch's broomstick for rapid long-distance transportation; effective teaching methods
2. sense_key=effective%5:00:00:competent:00 | definition=able to accomplish a purpose; functioning effectively; -G.B.Shaw | synonyms=efficient | examples=people who will do nothing unless they get something out of it for themselves are often highly effective persons...; effective personnel
3. sense_key=effective%5:00:00:efficacious:00 | definition=works well as a means or remedy | examples=an effective reprimand; a lotion that is effective in cases of prickly heat
4. sense_key=effective%5:00:00:operative:00 | definition=exerting force or influence | synonyms=good, in effect, in force | examples=the law is effective immediately; a warranty good for two years
5. sense_key=effective%5:00:00:actual:00 | definition=existing in fact; not theoretical; real | examples=a decline in the effective demand; confused increased equipment and expenditure with the quantity of effective work done
6. sense_key=effective%5:00:00:operational:00 | definition=ready for service | examples=the fort was held by about 100 effective soldiers

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

The context describes a president being "more effective at preventing other districts/states...from bringing home the local benefits." This refers to the president's capability to produce or accomplish an intended result—specifically, the goal of prevention. Sense 1 ("producing or capable of producing an intended result") best captures this meaning, describing the president as capable of successfully achieving the objective of limiting local benefit-seeking behavior. This is the core sense of "effective" in the passage.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context to determine which sense of "effective" best fits here.

The context discusses:
- A GOP president's ability to prevent other districts/states from bringing home local benefits
- "a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits"

So the sentence is saying the president would be "more effective at preventing other districts/states from bringing home local benefits."

Let me examine each sense:

1. "producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect" - This is about producing results or having an impact. In context, it means the president would be successful/capable of preventing the benefits.

2. "able to accomplish a purpose; functioning effectively" - This is about being able to accomplish purposes and functioning well.

3. "works well as a means or remedy" - This is specifically about medical/remedial applications. Doesn't fit well here.

4. "exerting force or influence" - This is about exerting force or influence, being in effect/force.

5. "existing in fact; not theoretical; real" - This is about actual/real existence, not about ability to accomplish something.

6. "ready for service" - This is about military readiness. Not the primary meaning here.

The key phrase is "be more effective at preventing" - this is about the president's capability or ability to accomplish the goal of prevention. The question is whether it's sense 1 (producing intended results/striking effect) or sense 2 (able to accomplish purpose/functioning effectively).

Both 1 and 2 work well, but sense 1 seems to be the more general, foundational meaning about "producing or capable of producing an intended result" which fits perfectly - the president would be capable of producing the result of preventing benefits to other districts.

Actually, looking more carefully, sense 2 says "able to accomplish a purpose; functioning effectively" which also directly fits - the president is able to accomplish the purpose of preventing other districts from getting benefits.
Sense 1 is the broader concept of producing results, while sense 2 narrows that down to accomplishing specific purposes. Since the passage focuses on the president's capability to achieve the goal of preventing benefits to other districts, sense 1 best captures this—it's the foundational meaning describing the capacity to generate an intended outcome.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: prevent
Target surface form: preventing
Context:
3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at <t>preventing</t> other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=prevent%2:41:01:: | definition=keep from happening or arising; make impossible | synonyms=forestall, foreclose, preclude, forbid | examples=My sense of tact forbids an honest answer; Your role in the projects precludes your involvement in the competitive project
2. sense_key=prevent%2:41:00:: | definition=stop (someone or something) from doing something or being in a certain state | synonyms=keep | examples=We must prevent the cancer from spreading; His snoring kept me from falling asleep

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
{"sense_index": 2}

The context shows "preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits," which describes stopping or restraining persons (legislators) from performing an action (bringing home benefits). This matches sense 2's definition of "stop (someone or something) from doing something or being in a certain state," where the agents (legislators) are restrained from performing an action. Sense 1's definition of "keep from happening or arising" describes preventing events/situations rather than agents from performing actions.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the target word "preventing" in the given context.

The sentence is: "Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits."

Let me look at the two candidate senses:

1. sense_key=prevent%2:41:01:: | definition=keep from happening or arising; make impossible | synonyms=forestall, foreclose, preclude, forbid | examples=My sense of tact forbids an honest answer; Your role in the projects precludes your involvement in the competitive project

2. sense_key=prevent%2:41:00:: | definition=stop (someone or something) from doing something or being in a certain state | synonyms=keep | examples=We must prevent the cancer from spreading; His snoring kept me from falling asleep

In the context, "preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits" means stopping them from doing something (bringing home local benefits).

This is about stopping/restraining legislators from doing an action (bringing home benefits).

Sense 2 says "stop (someone or something) from doing something or being in a certain state" - this matches perfectly. The president is preventing other legislators from bringing home local benefits (an action).

Sense 1 says "keep from happening or arising; make impossible" - this is more about preventing an event/situation from occurring, rather than preventing a person from doing something.

The example "We must prevent the cancer from spreading" fits sense 2 better than sense 1, as it's stopping something (cancer) from doing something (spreading).

In our context, it's "preventing other legislators from bringing home benefits" - preventing people/entities from doing an action.

So the answer should be sense 2, which would be index 2.

Actually, let me reconsider. The indices given are the sense numbers as they appear in the candidate list:
1. First candidate sense
2. Second candidate sense

So the answer should be {"sense_index": 2}


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: other
Target surface form: other
Context:
3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing <t>other</t> districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=other%3:00:00:: | definition=not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied; - the White Queen | examples=today isn't any other day; the construction of highways and other public works
2. sense_key=other%5:00:00:past:00 | definition=recently past | examples=the other evening
3. sense_key=other%5:00:02:past:00 | definition=belonging to the distant past | synonyms=early, former | examples=the early inhabitants of Europe; former generations
4. sense_key=other%5:00:00:strange:00 | definition=very unusual; different in character or quality from the normal or expected; - Lance Morrow | examples=a strange, other dimension...where his powers seemed to fail

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

content:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the target word "other" in this context.

The sentence is: "Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing <t>other</t> districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits."

Here, "other" is used to refer to "districts/states" that are different from the voter's particular district/state - i.e., "other districts/states" means districts/states that are not the voter's own.

Let me examine the candidate senses:

1. sense_key=other%3:00:00:: | definition=not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied | examples=today isn't any other day; the construction of highways and other public works
   - This makes sense: "other districts/states" = districts/states that are not the same as the voter's particular district/state already mentioned

2. sense_key=other%5:00:00:past:00 | definition=recently past | examples=the other evening
   - This doesn't fit because we're not talking about temporal concepts here

3. sense_key=other%5:00:02:past:00 | definition=belonging to the distant past | synonyms=early, former
   - This doesn't apply either - we're not discussing past time periods

4. sense_key=other%5:00:00:strange:00 | definition=very unusual; different in character or quality
   - This doesn't fit - we're not saying the districts/states are strange or unusual in character

The best fit is clearly sense 1, which means "not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied." In the context, "other districts/states" contrasts with the voter's "particular district/state" already mentioned, making this the correct sense.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: local
Target surface form: local
Context:
3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the <t>local</t> benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=local%3:00:01:: | definition=relating to or applicable to or concerned with the administration of a city or town or district rather than a larger area | examples=local taxes; local authorities
2. sense_key=local%3:01:01:: | definition=of or belonging to or characteristic of a particular locality or neighborhood | examples=local customs; local schools
3. sense_key=local%3:00:02:: | definition=affecting only a restricted part or area of the body | examples=local anesthesia

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
{"sense_index": 1}

The context discusses congressional representatives and their ability to bring "benefits" to their "respective constituencies" and "particular district/state," explicitly contrasting local governance and benefits with "national policy making." This reflects the distinction between local (district/state-level) administration versus larger national governance, which directly aligns with Sense 1's focus on "relating to or applicable to the administration of a city or town or district rather than a larger area."

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context to determine which sense of "local" is being used.

The target word is "local" appearing in the phrase "bringing home the local benefits."

Let me examine each candidate sense:

1. Sense 1: "relating to or applicable to or concerned with the administration of a city or town or district rather than a larger area" - Examples: local taxes, local authorities. This refers to local government or administration at a smaller geographic/political level.

2. Sense 2: "of or belonging to or characteristic of a particular locality or neighborhood" - Examples: local customs, local schools. This refers to something being specific to a particular place or area.

3. Sense 3: "affecting only a restricted part or area of the body" - Examples: local anesthesia. This is about medical/anatomical localization, clearly not relevant here.

Now let me look at the context:
- The passage discusses Congressional representatives and their ability to bring "local benefits" to their districts/states
- It mentions "their respective constituencies"
- It talks about "the voter's particular district/state"
- The phrase is "bringing home the local benefits"

The context is clearly about political benefits specific to a particular district or state - the "local" area that the legislator represents.

Between senses 1 and 2:
- Sense 1 emphasizes the administrative/governmental aspect (local taxes, local authorities)
- Sense 2 emphasizes something being characteristic of or belonging to a particular locality

In the political context, when we talk about "local benefits" in the context of districts and states, we're talking about benefits that go to a particular locality/district rather than the nation as a whole. This is more about the geographic/locality aspect than specifically about governmental administration.

Actually, looking again - "local benefits" in the context of what legislators can "bring home" to their constituencies seems to fit Sense 1 better, since it's about the administration and local government level vs. national level. The whole passage contrasts "national policy making" with bringing "local benefits" to one's district.
The passage sets up a clear opposition between national-level policymaking and district-level benefits, which directly aligns with Sense 1's focus on administrative distinctions between local and larger governmental structures.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: benefit
Target surface form: benefits
Context:
3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local <t>benefits</t>. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=benefit%1:21:00:: | definition=financial assistance in time of need
2. sense_key=benefit%1:07:00:: | definition=something that aids or promotes well-being | synonyms=welfare | examples=for the benefit of all
3. sense_key=benefit%1:10:00:: | definition=a performance to raise money for a charitable cause

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 2}
```

**Reasoning**: In this political economy context, "benefits" refers to advantages or improvements that aid the well-being of a voter's district/state—such as government spending, projects, and tax advantages that legislators can bring to their constituencies. This matches sense 2 ("something that aids or promotes well-being"), as evidenced by the repeated phrase "local benefits" describing tangible advantages voters receive from their representatives, parallel to "bringing home the bacon." Sense 1 (financial assistance in time of need) is too narrowly specific, and sense 3 (charitable performance) is entirely inapplicable.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context of "benefits" in this passage about Congressional voting incentives.

The passage discusses how voters face incentives related to getting "local benefits" from their representatives. It talks about:
- "Local benefit-seeking"
- "Less in terms of local benefits"
- "Bringing home the bacon" (getting benefits for their districts)
- "Bringing home the local benefits"
- The voter's "standing" being "enhanced through lower taxes"

The context is about advantages or improvements that voters would receive from their elected representatives - things like government spending, projects, tax benefits, etc. that benefit their districts.

Let me examine the three candidate senses:

1. sense_key=benefit%1:21:00:: | definition=financial assistance in time of need
   - This refers to specific financial aid (like unemployment benefits, welfare payments)
   - This is too narrow for the context

2. sense_key=benefit%1:07:00:: | definition=something that aids or promotes well-being | synonyms=welfare | examples=for the benefit of all
   - This is a broad sense meaning something that aids or promotes well-being
   - The example "for the benefit of all" matches the context
   - "Local benefits" = things that aid/promote the well-being of a district
   - This fits perfectly

3. sense_key=benefit%1:10:00:: | definition=a performance to raise money for a charitable cause
   - This is a specific event (like a benefit concert)
   - Not applicable here

The context is clearly about advantages or goods that benefit a district/locality, which corresponds to sense 2 - "something that aids or promotes well-being."

The answer should be 2.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: individual
Target surface form: individual
Context:
If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The <t>individual</t> voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=individual%3:00:00:: | definition=being or characteristic of a single thing or person | synonyms=single | examples=individual drops of rain; please mark the individual pages
2. sense_key=individual%5:00:00:independent:00 | definition=separate and distinct from others of the same kind | synonyms=case-by-case, item-by-item | examples=mark the individual pages; on a case-by-case basis
3. sense_key=individual%5:00:00:unshared:00 | definition=characteristic of or meant for a single person or thing | synonyms=single | examples=an individual serving; single occupancy
4. sense_key=individual%5:00:00:personal:00 | definition=concerning one person exclusively | synonyms=private | examples=we all have individual cars; each room has a private bath

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 2}
```

The context discusses "the individual voter" in contrast to broader voting patterns and aggregated effects. The passage emphasizes how a single voter is separate and distinct from other voters and from the collective voting system. Sense 2 ("separate and distinct from others of the same kind") best captures this meaning, where the individual voter is being considered as a distinct entity with their own incentives and standing, rather than as part of an aggregate group.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context to determine which sense of "individual" is being used.

The sentence in question is: "The <t>individual</t> voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."

Let me look at each sense:

1. Sense 1: "being or characteristic of a single thing or person" - This is about singularity or being one.

2. Sense 2: "separate and distinct from others of the same kind" - This is about separateness and distinction.

3. Sense 3: "characteristic of or meant for a single person or thing" - This is about something being for one person.

4. Sense 4: "concerning one person exclusively" - This is about something being exclusive to one person.

In the context, "the individual voter" is referring to a single voter as opposed to voters in aggregate. The passage discusses how different voters (or types of voters) have incentives, and then discusses "the individual voter's standing" - meaning a single voter's personal status/position.

Let me think about which sense best fits:
- The passage is contrasting individual voters with larger groups
- "Individual voter" means a single, separate voter
- It's about a voter considered on their own
- The passage is not saying "an individual serving" (sense 3) or necessarily about something being "exclusive to one person" (sense 4)

Sense 2 ("separate and distinct from others of the same kind") seems most appropriate. The individual voter is being discussed as distinct from other voters or from aggregated voter behavior. The voter is being considered separately and distinctly.

Actually, looking more carefully, sense 1 could also work - "being or characteristic of a single thing or person" - an individual voter is a single voter.

But sense 2 "separate and distinct from others of the same kind" - this emphasizes the distinction between voters, which is what the passage is discussing.

I think sense 2 is the best fit because it emphasizes that individual voters are separate and distinct entities, which is the key contrast in the passage between singular voters and larger groups/systems.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: standing
Target surface form: standing
Context:
If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's <t>standing</t> consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=standing%1:26:00:: | definition=social or financial or professional status or reputation | examples=of equal standing; a member in good standing
2. sense_key=standing%1:10:00:: | definition=an ordered listing of scores or results showing the relative positions of competitors (individuals or teams) in a sporting event
3. sense_key=standing%1:04:00:: | definition=the act of assuming or maintaining an erect upright position

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context carefully to determine which sense of "standing" is being used.

The sentence reads: "The individual voter's <t>standing</t> consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."

Let me consider each sense:

1. Sense 1: "social or financial or professional status or reputation" - examples include "of equal standing" and "a member in good standing"

2. Sense 2: "an ordered listing of scores or results showing the relative positions of competitors (individuals or teams) in a sporting event"

3. Sense 3: "the act of assuming or maintaining an erect upright position"

In the context of the passage discussing voters' economic incentives and benefits:
- The passage discusses how voters' "standing" will be enhanced through lower taxes
- This is in the context of financial/economic welfare and relative position/status
- The phrase "will be enhanced through lower taxes" suggests improved financial or economic status

This is clearly referring to the voter's financial or economic status/position, not:
- A sporting rankings (sense 2) - not relevant to the discussion
- Physical position (sense 3) - not relevant at all

Sense 1 is the best fit. The term "standing" here refers to the voter's social, financial, or professional status/reputation. The context shows it's about how voters' economic position and benefits will improve (be enhanced) through lower taxes. This aligns perfectly with the definition of "social or financial or professional status or reputation."


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: enhance
Target surface form: enhanced
Context:
If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be <t>enhanced</t> through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=enhance%2:30:00:: | definition=increase | synonyms=heighten, raise | examples=This will enhance your enjoyment; heighten the tension
2. sense_key=enhance%2:30:01:: | definition=make better or more attractive | examples=This sauce will enhance the flavor of the meat

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

The word "enhanced" in this context means the voter's standing (financial position/status) will be increased or raised through lower taxes. This aligns with sense 1 (increase/heighten), where the synonyms "raise" and "heighten" directly apply to the phrase "raise one's standing." The economic argument is about how lower taxes will increase the voter's overall position and advantage.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context around the word "enhanced" to determine which sense is most appropriate.

The sentence is: "The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."

Let me look at the two candidate senses:

1. sense_key=enhance%2:30:00:: | definition=increase | synonyms=heighten, raise | examples=This will enhance your enjoyment; heighten the tension

2. sense_key=enhance%2:30:01:: | definition=make better or more attractive | examples=This sauce will enhance the flavor of the meat

In the context, "enhanced" is describing how a voter's "standing" will be affected through lower taxes.

"Standing" refers to one's position, status, or financial situation. The text suggests that through lower taxes (which a Republican president would implement), a voter's standing will be improved/increased.

Both senses could work to some degree:
- Sense 1 (increase/heighten) suggests raising or elevating the standing
- Sense 2 (make better or more attractive) suggests improving the quality of standing

However, looking at the context more carefully:
- The passage discusses economic incentives and benefits
- It talks about voters acquiring "less in terms of local benefits" under Republicans but having "lower taxes"
- The voter's standing is "enhanced" through lower taxes - this is about the quality/condition improving

Sense 1 focuses on the quantitative aspect (increase/heighten/raise)
Sense 2 focuses on the qualitative aspect (make better or more attractive)

In this economic context, "standing will be enhanced through lower taxes" seems to mean the voter's financial/economic position will be improved or made better. This leans more toward sense 2 (make better or more attractive) because it's about improving the overall condition/status.

However, "raise" and "heighten" (from sense 1) could also apply to standing - raising one's standing is a common metaphor.
The phrase "raise one's standing" is particularly relevant here, and given the economic benefit being described, sense 1 (increase/heighten) better captures how lower taxes would elevate the voter's position.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: simple
Target surface form: simple
Context:
If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly <t>simple</t>, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=simple%3:00:02:: | definition=having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved | examples=a simple problem; simple mechanisms
2. sense_key=simple%5:00:00:easy:01 | definition=easy and not involved or complicated | synonyms=elementary, uncomplicated, unproblematic | examples=an elementary problem in statistics; elementary, my dear Watson
3. sense_key=simple%5:00:02:plain:01 | definition=apart from anything else; without additions or modifications | synonyms=bare, mere | examples=only the bare facts; shocked by the mere idea
4. sense_key=simple%5:00:00:naive:00 | definition=exhibiting childlike simplicity and credulity | synonyms=childlike, wide-eyed, round-eyed, dewy-eyed | examples=childlike trust; dewy-eyed innocence
5. sense_key=simple%5:00:00:retarded:00 | definition=lacking mental capacity and subtlety | synonyms=dim-witted, simple-minded
6. sense_key=simple%3:00:01:: | definition=(botany) of leaf shapes; of leaves having no divisions or subdivisions | synonyms=unsubdivided
7. sense_key=simple%5:00:00:plain:01 | definition=unornamented | examples=a simple country schoolhouse; her black dress--simple to austerity

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

The word "simple" in this context describes a theory that is not complex or complicated—it has few parts and is straightforward in its structure. The author explicitly states the theory "is exceedingly simple" yet "appears to explain several things," indicating the theory can be reduced to basic components without complex internal structure. This matches the definition "having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved."

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context to determine which sense of "simple" is being used.

The context is: "While this theory is exceedingly <t>simple</t>, it appears to explain several things."

The passage is discussing a theory about voter incentives regarding Republican vs. Democratic electoral choices. The author describes the theory as "exceedingly simple" but notes that it "appears to explain several things."

Let me consider each sense:

1. "having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved" - This seems to fit. A simple theory would be one that has few parts and isn't complicated.

2. "easy and not involved or complicated" - Similar to #1, this also fits well for describing a theory as simple.

3. "apart from anything else; without additions or modifications" - This doesn't fit as well. We're not saying the theory is "bare" or "mere."

4. "exhibiting childlike simplicity and credulity" - No, this has a negative connotation about naiveté. The author isn't saying the theory is naively simple or childish.

5. "lacking mental capacity and subtlety" - This definitely doesn't fit. The author isn't insulting the theory.

6. "of leaf shapes; of leaves having no divisions or subdivisions" - This is a botanical term, doesn't apply here.

7. "unornamented" - This could theoretically fit if we're talking about the presentation being simple, but it's not the best fit for describing a theory.

The best fit is either sense 1 or sense 2. Both refer to something that is not complex or complicated.

Sense 1 says "having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved" with examples like "a simple problem"
Sense 2 says "easy and not involved or complicated" with examples like "an elementary problem in statistics"

For a theory being "exceedingly simple," sense 1 (having few parts; not complex) seems more directly applicable than sense 2 (which emphasizes "easy"). The theory is described as having a simple explanation, meaning it doesn't have complex parts.
Sense 1 better captures what we mean when describing a theory as simple—it's about structural economy rather than ease of comprehension. The distinction matters because a theory can be structurally simple yet still require effort to fully grasp.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: appear
Target surface form: appears
Context:
If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it <t>appears</t> to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=appear%2:39:00:: | definition=give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect | synonyms=look, seem | examples=She seems to be sleeping; This appears to be a very difficult problem
2. sense_key=appear%2:30:00:: | definition=come into sight or view | examples=He suddenly appeared at the wedding; A new star appeared on the horizon
3. sense_key=appear%2:30:01:: | definition=be issued or published | synonyms=come out | examples=Did your latest book appear yet?; The new Woody Allen film hasn't come out yet
4. sense_key=appear%2:39:01:: | definition=seem to be true, probable, or apparent | synonyms=seem | examples=It seems that he is very gifted; It appears that the weather in California is very bad
5. sense_key=appear%2:30:02:: | definition=come into being or existence, or appear on the scene | synonyms=come along | examples=Then the computer came along and changed our lives; Homo sapiens appeared millions of years ago
6. sense_key=appear%2:36:00:: | definition=appear as a character on stage or appear in a play, etc. | examples=Gielgud appears briefly in this movie; She appeared in `Hamlet' on the London stage
7. sense_key=appear%2:41:03:: | definition=present oneself formally, as before a (judicial) authority | examples=He had to appear in court last month; She appeared on several charges of theft

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

content:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context and the target word "appears" in the sentence:

"While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things."

Looking at the context:
- The word "appears" is used in a sentence expressing an opinion or assessment about how the theory seems or looks
- It's saying the theory "seems to" or "looks like it" explains several things
- This is about giving an impression or seeming, not about something literally coming into view or being published

Let me examine the candidate senses:

1. sense_key=appear%2:39:00:: | definition=give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect | synonyms=look, seem | examples=She seems to be sleeping; This appears to be a very difficult problem
   - This fits well - it's about giving an impression

2. sense_key=appear%2:30:00:: | definition=come into sight or view | examples=He suddenly appeared at the wedding
   - This is about physically appearing - doesn't fit

3. sense_key=appear%2:30:01:: | definition=be issued or published
   - This is about publication - doesn't fit

4. sense_key=appear%2:39:01:: | definition=seem to be true, probable, or apparent | synonyms=seem | examples=It seems that he is very gifted; It appears that the weather in California is very bad
   - This also fits very well - "appears to explain" is similar to "appears that"

5. sense_key=appear%2:30:02:: | definition=come into being or existence
   - This is about coming into existence - doesn't fit

6. sense_key=appear%2:36:00:: | definition=appear as a character on stage
   - This is about theatrical appearing - doesn't fit

7. sense_key=appear%2:41:03:: | definition=present oneself formally, as before a (judicial) authority
   - This is about legal proceedings - doesn't fit

Between senses 1 and 4, both convey the notion of seeming or appearing in an impressionistic way. The key difference lies in their syntactic patterns: sense 1 uses an infinitive construction ("appears to be"), which matches our sentence structure exactly, while sense 4 employs a "that" clause. Given that "it appears to explain" follows the same grammatical form as the example "This appears to be a very difficult problem," sense 1 is the better match.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: explain
Target surface form: explain
Context:
If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to <t>explain</t> several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=explain%2:32:00:: | definition=make plain and comprehensible | synonyms=explicate | examples=He explained the laws of physics to his students
2. sense_key=explain%2:32:01:: | definition=define | examples=The committee explained their plan for fund-raising to the Dean
3. sense_key=explain%2:32:02:: | definition=serve as a reason or cause or justification of | synonyms=excuse | examples=Your need to sleep late does not excuse your late arrival at work; Her recent divorce may explain her reluctance to date again

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 3}
```

The target word "explain" in this context means that the theory serves as the reason or cause for the observed political phenomena (increased ticket splitting and its particular pattern). This aligns with sense 3, which defines "explain" as "serve as a reason or cause or justification of." The example "Her recent divorce may explain her reluctance to date again" demonstrates the same usage pattern, where one thing accounts for or is the underlying reason for another phenomenon.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context to determine which sense of "explain" is being used.

The sentence is: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things."

The context discusses a theory about voter behavior and political incentives. The theory is presented as explaining:
1. Why ticket splitting has increased
2. The peculiar pattern it has taken over the past half century

Let me look at the three candidate senses:

1. **sense 1 (define/clarify)**: "make plain and comprehensible | define" with example "He explained the laws of physics to his students"
   - This would be about making something clear or understandable in an educational sense

2. **sense 2 (define)**: "define" with example "The committee explained their plan for fund-raising to the Dean"
   - This is about presenting or laying out details

3. **sense 3 (serve as reason/cause)**: "serve as a reason or cause or justification of | excuse" with examples about "Your need to sleep late does not excuse your late arrival at work; Her recent divorce may explain her reluctance to date again"
   - This is about being the reason or cause for something

In the context, the theory is meant to account for or be the reason behind the increase in ticket splitting and its particular pattern. The word "explain" here means that the theory can serve as the reason/cause for these phenomena - why they occurred.

This is clearly sense 3: "serve as a reason or cause or justification of"

The examples in sense 3 align perfectly: "Her recent divorce may explain her reluctance to date again" - similar structure where one thing accounts for or is the reason for another.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: several
Target surface form: several
Context:
If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain <t>several</t> things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=several%5:00:00:some:00 | definition=(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many | examples=several letters came in the mail; several people were injured in the accident
2. sense_key=several%5:00:00:individual:00 | definition=considered individually | synonyms=respective, various | examples=the respective club members; specialists in their several fields
3. sense_key=several%5:00:00:different:00 | definition=distinct and individual | examples=three several times

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

The context shows "several things" referring to multiple items that the theory explains (followed by enumeration: "First, why ticket splitting has increased..."). This is the standard modern usage of "several" meaning an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many, with a countable noun. While sense 2 exists as an archaic/formal usage (meaning "respective" or "various"), sense 1 is the correct contemporary reading here.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context to determine which sense of "several" is being used.

The sentence is: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things."

Let me examine each sense:

1. Sense 1: "(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many" - This is the most common modern usage of "several," meaning some unspecified number (more than 2-3, but not many). In the context, "several things" refers to multiple things that the theory explains, but not all things. This fits well.

2. Sense 2: "considered individually" with synonyms "respective, various" - This would mean "individual things" or "various things." The context could fit this as well, since the theory explains individual/separate things.

3. Sense 3: "distinct and individual" - This is a less common usage, similar to sense 2.

Looking at the context more carefully: "it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased..."

The use of "First" after "several things" suggests that there are multiple distinct things being listed. The word "several" here is indicating an indefinite but small plurality of things.

The most natural reading in modern English is Sense 1 - the indefinite number meaning "more than 2 or 3 but not many." The phrase "several things" followed by "First, [one reason]" clearly indicates multiple countable items.

Sense 2 (considered individually/respective) would more naturally be used in phrases like "in their several fields" as the example shows.

I'll go with Sense 1.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: thing
Target surface form: things
Context:
If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several <t>things</t>. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=thing%1:26:00:: | definition=a special situation | examples=this thing has got to end; it is a remarkable thing
2. sense_key=thing%1:04:00:: | definition=an action | examples=how could you do such a thing?
3. sense_key=thing%1:09:00:: | definition=a special abstraction | examples=a thing of the spirit; things of the heart
4. sense_key=thing%1:06:00:: | definition=an artifact | examples=how does this thing work?
5. sense_key=thing%1:11:00:: | definition=an event | examples=a funny thing happened on the way to the...
6. sense_key=thing%1:09:02:: | definition=a vaguely specified concern | synonyms=matter, affair | examples=several matters to attend to; it is none of your affair
7. sense_key=thing%1:10:00:: | definition=a statement regarded as an object | examples=to say the same thing in other terms; how can you say such a thing?
8. sense_key=thing%1:06:01:: | definition=an entity that is not named specifically | examples=I couldn't tell what the thing was
9. sense_key=thing%1:07:00:: | definition=any attribute or quality considered as having its own existence | examples=the thing I like about her is ...
10. sense_key=thing%1:09:01:: | definition=a special objective | examples=the thing is to stay in bounds
11. sense_key=thing%1:12:00:: | definition=a persistent illogical feeling of desire or aversion | examples=he has a thing about seafood; she has a thing about him
12. sense_key=thing%1:03:00:: | definition=a separate and self-contained entity

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 6}
```

The word "things" in this context means "matters" or "concerns" that the theory helps explain. The theory explains several phenomena (ticket splitting patterns, government roles, voter behavior). Sense 6 ("a vaguely specified concern") with the synonym "matter" and the example "several matters to attend to" is the best match for this usage.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context to find the best sense for "things" in this sentence:

"While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things."

The word "things" here is referring to phenomena or facts that need explanation. Looking at the context, the theory being discussed explains:
1. Why ticket splitting has increased
2. The pattern it has taken
3. The historical context around government roles

So "things" = "phenomena" or "matters" that the theory helps explain.

Let me review the candidate senses:

1. "a special situation" - This could fit, as the theory explains multiple situations
2. "an action" - Not really, these aren't actions
3. "a special abstraction" - Could fit, as these are abstract concepts
4. "an artifact" - No, not physical objects
5. "an event" - Could fit, as ticket splitting and government roles are events/phenomena
6. "a vaguely specified concern" | "matter, affair" - This seems very fitting! "Several matters to attend to" is similar to "several things to explain"
7. "a statement regarded as an object" - No, not statements
8. "an entity that is not named specifically" - Could fit
9. "any attribute or quality" - No
10. "a special objective" - No
11. "a persistent illogical feeling" - No
12. "a separate and self-contained entity" - Could be generic

Sense 6 (thing%1:09:02::) seems best: "a vaguely specified concern" with synonyms "matter, affair" and examples like "several matters to attend to; it is none of your affair". This perfectly matches "appears to explain several things" where "things" are matters/concerns that need explaining.

The answer is 6.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: increase
Target surface form: increased
Context:
Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has <t>increased</t> and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=increase%2:30:00:: | definition=become bigger or greater in amount | examples=The amount of work increased
2. sense_key=increase%2:30:02:: | definition=make bigger or more | examples=The boss finally increased her salary; The university increased the number of students it admitted

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

The target word "increased" in the phrase "ticket splitting has increased" is used intransitively to describe something becoming greater or larger in amount over time. There is no agent actively causing this change, and no direct object following the verb. This matches sense 1 (become bigger or greater in amount) rather than sense 2 (make bigger or more), which requires a transitive construction with a direct object.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context for the word "increased" in this passage.

The sentence is: "First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century"

Here, "ticket splitting" is the subject, and the verb is "has increased". The sentence is describing that ticket splitting has become greater or larger in amount over time.

Let me compare the two senses:

1. sense_key=increase%2:30:00:: | definition=become bigger or greater in amount | examples=The amount of work increased
   - This is the intransitive sense (no object), describing something becoming larger
   - The example "The amount of work increased" is an intransitive use

2. sense_key=increase%2:30:02:: | definition=make bigger or more | examples=The boss finally increased her salary; The university increased the number of students it admitted
   - This is the transitive sense (with an object), where someone actively makes something bigger
   - The examples show a transitive use with a direct object

In the context "ticket splitting has increased", we have:
- Subject: ticket splitting
- Verb: increased (with auxiliary "has")
- No direct object

This is clearly an intransitive use, where ticket splitting is becoming greater in amount without any agent actively making it greater. This matches sense 1.

The answer should be 1.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: take
Target surface form: taken
Context:
Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and <t>taken</t> the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=take%2:41:04:: | definition=carry out | examples=take action; take steps
2. sense_key=take%2:40:06:: | definition=require (time or space) | synonyms=occupy, use up | examples=It took three hours to get to work this morning; This event occupied a very short time
3. sense_key=take%2:38:09:: | definition=take somebody somewhere | synonyms=lead, direct, conduct, guide | examples=We lead him to our chief; can you take me to the main entrance?
4. sense_key=take%2:35:00:: | definition=get into one's hands, take physically | synonyms=get hold of | examples=Take a cookie!; Can you take this bag, please
5. sense_key=take%2:30:01:: | definition=take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect | synonyms=assume, acquire, adopt, take on | examples=His voice took on a sad tone; The story took a new turn
6. sense_key=take%2:31:07:: | definition=interpret something in a certain way; convey a particular meaning or impression | synonyms=read | examples=I read this address as a satire; How should I take this message?
7. sense_key=take%2:38:10:: | definition=take something or somebody with oneself somewhere | synonyms=bring, convey | examples=Bring me the box from the other room; Take these letters to the boss
8. sense_key=take%2:40:00:: | definition=take into one's possession | examples=We are taking an orphan from Romania; I'll take three salmon steaks
9. sense_key=take%2:38:02:: | definition=travel or go by means of a certain kind of transportation, or a certain route | examples=He takes the bus to work; She takes Route 1 to Newark
10. sense_key=take%2:31:01:: | definition=pick out, select, or choose from a number of alternatives | synonyms=choose, select, pick out | examples=Take any one of these cards; Choose a good husband for your daughter
11. sense_key=take%2:40:05:: | definition=receive willingly something given or offered | synonyms=accept, have | examples=The only girl who would have him was the miller's daughter; I won't have this dog in my house!
12. sense_key=take%2:41:00:: | definition=assume, as of positions or roles | synonyms=fill, occupy | examples=She took the job as director of development; he occupies the position of manager
13. sense_key=take%2:31:03:: | definition=take into consideration for exemplifying purposes | synonyms=consider, deal, look at | examples=Take the case of China; Consider the following case
14. sense_key=take%2:42:00:: | definition=require as useful, just, or proper | synonyms=necessitate, ask, postulate, need, require, involve | examples=It takes nerve to do what she did; success usually requires hard work
15. sense_key=take%2:39:00:: | definition=experience or feel or submit to | examples=Take a test; Take the plunge
16. sense_key=take%2:32:02:: | definition=make a film or photograph of something | synonyms=film, shoot | examples=take a scene; shoot a movie
17. sense_key=take%2:30:00:: | definition=remove something concrete, as by lifting, pushing, or taking off, or remove something abstract | synonyms=remove, take away, withdraw | examples=remove a threat; remove a wrapper
18. sense_key=take%2:34:00:: | definition=serve oneself to, or consume regularly | synonyms=consume, ingest, take in, have | examples=Have another bowl of chicken soup!; I don't take sugar in my coffee
19. sense_key=take%2:31:09:: | definition=accept or undergo, often unwillingly | synonyms=submit | examples=We took a pay cut
20. sense_key=take%2:40:15:: | definition=make use of or accept for some purpose | synonyms=accept | examples=take a risk; take an opportunity
21. sense_key=take%2:40:01:: | definition=take by force | examples=Hitler took the Baltic Republics; The army took the fort on the hill
22. sense_key=take%2:38:00:: | definition=occupy or take on | synonyms=assume, strike, take up | examples=He assumes the lotus position; She took her seat on the stage
23. sense_key=take%2:40:07:: | definition=admit into a group or community | synonyms=accept, admit, take on | examples=accept students for graduate study; We'll have to vote on whether or not to admit a new member
24. sense_key=take%2:30:08:: | definition=ascertain or determine by measuring, computing or take a reading from a dial | examples=take a pulse; A reading was taken of the earth's tremors
25. sense_key=take%2:31:02:: | definition=be a student of a certain subject | synonyms=learn, study, read | examples=She is reading for the bar exam
26. sense_key=take%2:32:00:: | definition=take as an undesirable consequence of some event or state of affairs | synonyms=claim, exact | examples=the accident claimed three lives; The hard work took its toll on her
27. sense_key=take%2:38:05:: | definition=head into a specified direction | synonyms=make | examples=The escaped convict took to the hills; We made for the mountains
28. sense_key=take%2:33:09:: | definition=point or cause to go (blows, weapons, or objects such as photographic equipment) towards | synonyms=aim, train, take aim, direct | examples=Please don't aim at your little brother!; He trained his gun on the burglar
29. sense_key=take%2:30:09:: | definition=be seized or affected in a specified way | examples=take sick; be taken drunk
30. sense_key=take%2:42:10:: | definition=have with oneself; have on one's person | synonyms=carry, pack | examples=She always takes an umbrella; I always carry money
31. sense_key=take%2:40:03:: | definition=engage for service under a term of contract | synonyms=lease, rent, hire, charter, engage | examples=We took an apartment on a quiet street; Let's rent a car
32. sense_key=take%2:40:04:: | definition=receive or obtain regularly | synonyms=subscribe, subscribe to | examples=We take the Times every day
33. sense_key=take%2:40:02:: | definition=buy, select | examples=I'll take a pound of that sausage
34. sense_key=take%2:40:08:: | definition=to get into a position of having, e.g., safety, comfort | examples=take shelter from the storm
35. sense_key=take%2:35:14:: | definition=have sex with; archaic use | synonyms=have | examples=He had taken this woman when she was most vulnerable
36. sense_key=take%2:32:09:: | definition=lay claim to; as of an idea | synonyms=claim | examples=She took credit for the whole idea
37. sense_key=take%2:42:03:: | definition=be designed to hold or take | synonyms=accept | examples=This surface will not take the dye
38. sense_key=take%2:42:15:: | definition=be capable of holding or containing | synonyms=contain, hold | examples=This box won't take all the items; The flask holds one gallon
39. sense_key=take%2:41:13:: | definition=develop a habit | examples=He took to visiting bars
40. sense_key=take%2:38:11:: | definition=proceed along in a vehicle | synonyms=drive | examples=We drive the turnpike to work
41. sense_key=take%2:33:08:: | definition=obtain by winning | examples=Winner takes all; He took first prize
42. sense_key=take%2:29:08:: | definition=be stricken by an illness, fall victim to an illness | synonyms=contract, get | examples=He got AIDS; She came down with pneumonia

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

raw_output:
```json
{"sense_index": 5}
```

The context shows "ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century." Here, "taken" means that ticket splitting has acquired or assumed a particular pattern or form. This matches sense 5's definition "take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect" with synonyms like "assume, acquire, adopt." The example "The story took a new turn" is structurally parallel to how the phenomenon "took" a particular pattern in the given sentence.

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context where "taken" appears:

"First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century"

So the context is: "ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has"

This is saying that ticket splitting has both increased AND adopted/acquired the peculiar pattern that it has.

Let me look at the relevant senses:

Sense 5: "take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect" - synonyms: assume, acquire, adopt, take on
Examples: "His voice took on a sad tone; The story took a new turn"

This seems like the best fit. The sentence is saying that ticket splitting "took" or "adopted" the peculiar pattern. It's about acquiring or assuming a certain pattern/form.

Sense 22: "occupy or take on" - synonyms: assume, strike, take up
Examples: "He assumes the lotus position; She took her seat on the stage"

This could also work, but it's more about physical positions or occupation.

Sense 1: "carry out" - not applicable here

Sense 30: "take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect" is the same as sense 5 essentially.

Wait, let me re-read more carefully. The gloss for sense 5 is "take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect" with examples like "His voice took on a sad tone; The story took a new turn"

In the context: "ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has"

This is exactly like "The story took a new turn" - the phenomenon "took" a certain pattern/form. This is clearly sense 5.

The answer should be 5.


[System] You are an English linguist performing fine-grained Word Sense Disambiguation. WordNet glosses are schematic. Use the sentence context, the examples, and the synonyms to choose the best indexed sense. Do not hedge. Choose the single best indexed sense.

[User]
Target lemma: past
Target surface form: past
Context:
Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the <t>past</t> half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=past%3:00:00:: | definition=earlier than the present time; no longer current | examples=time past; his youth is past
2. sense_key=past%5:00:00:outgoing:00 | definition=of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office | synonyms=preceding, retiring | examples=a retiring member of the board

Instructions:
1. Choose the single best indexed sense for the target word in context.
2. WordNet glosses are schematic; use the context, synonyms, and examples together.
3. Do not answer with a WordNet sense key.
4. Return only a JSON object exactly like {"sense_index": 3}.

content:
```json
{"sense_index": 1}
```

reasoning_content:
Let me analyze the context and the two candidate senses for "past" in this sentence:

"it explains why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century"

The word "past" is being used to describe a period of time - specifically "the past half century" meaning the last 50 years, which is a period that is earlier than the present time.

Let me look at the two candidate senses:

1. Sense 1: "past%3:00:00::" - "earlier than the present time; no longer current" with examples "time past; his youth is past"
   - This is an adjective sense meaning something that happened before now, in a previous period of time

2. Sense 2: "past%5:00:00:outgoing:00" - "of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office" with synonyms "preceding, retiring" and examples "a retiring member of the board"
   - This is about a person who has left office or a position

In the context "over the past half century," "past" is being used as an adjective meaning "previous" or "earlier than the present time." It's describing a period of time that has already occurred.

This clearly matches Sense 1, which explicitly states "earlier than the present time; no longer current."

Sense 2 is about people holding positions, which doesn't fit the context at all.

The answer is sense 1.