[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: glass
Target surface form: glass
Context:
"Of course it looked like an accident. I always work it that way -- and always at a time when the customer has an alibi. Let me prove it, Phil. I think I can manage one more favor for you ". He waited eagerly. Haney swished the liquor in the bottom of his <t>glass</t>.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=glass%1:27:00:: | definition=a brittle transparent solid with irregular atomic structure
2. sense_key=glass%1:06:00:: | definition=a container for holding liquids while drinking | synonyms=drinking glass
3. sense_key=glass%1:23:00:: | definition=the quantity a glass will hold | synonyms=glassful
4. sense_key=glass%1:06:03:: | definition=a small refracting telescope | synonyms=field glass, spyglass
5. sense_key=glass%1:06:01:: | definition=an amphetamine derivative (trade name Methedrine) used in the form of a crystalline hydrochloride; used as a stimulant to the nervous system and as an appetite suppressant | synonyms=methamphetamine, methamphetamine hydrochloride, Methedrine, meth, deoxyephedrine, chalk
6. sense_key=glass%1:06:02:: | definition=a mirror; usually a ladies' dressing mirror | synonyms=looking glass
7. sense_key=glass%1:06:04:: | definition=glassware collectively | examples=She collected old glass

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:
**Deconstructing "Glass" in Context**

Alright, let's break this down. The target is "glass" in "Haney swished the liquor in the bottom of his glass." My immediate instinct is to generate a few potential senses. I've got: a brittle transparent solid, a container for drinking, the quantity the container holds, a small telescope, an amphetamine derivative, a mirror, and glassware in general.

Given the phrase "swished the liquor *in the bottom of his*", the context screams container. I'm discarding the material definition as a general substance (1), and definitely crossing off the telescope, the drug, the mirror, and the collective glassware (4, 5, 6, 7) because they just don't fit the action. The quantity (3) is plausible, as in "a glass of liquor", but the emphasis on "in the bottom" suggests the physical object itself is the focus.

Therefore, sense 2, the drinking glass, is the clear winner. That's the container, the physical object. The answer is obvious in this scenario.


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: rout
Target surface form: rout
Context:
Tuesday's <t>rout</t> of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=rout%1:14:00:: | definition=a disorderly crowd of people | synonyms=mob, rabble
2. sense_key=rout%1:11:00:: | definition=an overwhelming defeat

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}
```

finish_reason: stop

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

role: assistant

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing the Meaning of "Rout"**

Okay, so the word I need to define is "rout," specifically used as a noun. The context is "Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district..." My initial instinct is that this points towards the definition of an overwhelming defeat. Let's make sure, though. Let's quickly recall the different senses it has: first, a disorderly crowd, like a mob or rabble; and secondly, that overwhelming defeat. Given the phrase "Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful," it's clear this refers to the *defeat* of the candidate, not a chaotic group. Therefore, I can confidently select sense number two. It's an overwhelming defeat. Case closed.

type: thinking

service_tier: default

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: back
Target surface form: backed
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't <t>backed</t> a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=back%2:41:00:: | definition=be behind; approve of | synonyms=endorse, indorse, plump for, plunk for, support | examples=He plumped for the Labor Party; I backed Kennedy in 1960
2. sense_key=back%2:38:00:: | definition=travel backward | examples=back into the driveway; The car backed up and hit the tree
3. sense_key=back%2:41:01:: | definition=give support or one's approval to | synonyms=second, endorse, indorse | examples=I'll second that motion; I can't back this plan
4. sense_key=back%2:38:01:: | definition=cause to travel backward | examples=back the car into the parking spot
5. sense_key=back%2:40:00:: | definition=support financial backing for | examples=back this enterprise
6. sense_key=back%2:42:00:: | definition=be in back of | examples=My garage backs their yard
7. sense_key=back%2:33:00:: | definition=place a bet on | synonyms=bet on, gage, stake, game, punt | examples=Which horse are you backing?; I'm betting on the new horse
8. sense_key=back%2:30:03:: | definition=shift to a counterclockwise direction | examples=the wind backed
9. sense_key=back%2:30:00:: | definition=establish as valid or genuine | synonyms=back up | examples=Can you back up your claims?
10. sense_key=back%2:30:01:: | definition=strengthen by providing with a back or backing

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:
**Analyzing the Meaning of "Backed"**

Okay, the target word is "backed," derived from "back," and the context is about a Mississippi district. My task is to determine the most accurate sense of "backed" in the phrase "...hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate...". Let's see... the initial sense candidates are popping up.

Right away, I see three possibilities. Sense 1, "be behind; approve of," is the most promising given the political context. The synonyms like "endorse" and "support" jump out, and the example "I backed Kennedy in 1960" is a dead ringer! That seems almost too easy.

Hmm, there's also Candidate 3: "give support or one's approval to." Which is very similar. Let's compare those definitions directly, sense_key=back%2:41:00:: vs back%2:41:01::. Okay, Sense 1 includes more specific examples, particularly related to political support/endorsing a candidate.

Given the phrase "backed a Democratic presidential candidate", and the examples within Sense 1 like "I backed Kennedy in 1960", the political support sense is an obvious fit. Sense 1 is the one I'm confident in.


[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: democratic
Target surface form: Democratic
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a <t>Democratic</t> presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=democratic%3:00:00:: | definition=characterized by or advocating or based upon the principles of democracy or social equality; ; ; - George du Maurier | examples=democratic government; a democratic country
2. sense_key=democratic%3:01:00:: | definition=belong to or relating to the Democratic Party | examples=Democratic senator
3. sense_key=democratic%5:00:00:common:01 | definition=representing or appealing to or adapted for the benefit of the people at large | synonyms=popular | examples=democratic art forms; a democratic or popular movement

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": 2}
```

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing the Usage of "Democratic"**

Okay, here's the breakdown. The lemma is "democratic," and it's appearing as "Democratic" in this sentence. The context is mentioning a "Democratic presidential candidate," which immediately flags a potential issue because it's talking about a political entity. I need to figure out which sense of "democratic" is being used here. Let's see...

I have three senses defined: the general concept of democracy (Sense 1), belonging to the Democratic Party (Sense 2), and being for the people generally (Sense 3). Given the phrase, "Democratic presidential candidate", I can immediately rule out Sense 1 (principles of democracy) and Sense 3 (for the benefit of people). While those senses *could* apply in a broader sense, they don't seem like the correct interpretation here.

The context mentions a specific party, the "Democratic Party," and contrasts it with a "GOP congressional hopeful." This means we're discussing *political party affiliation*. Sense 2, which specifically defines "Democratic" as relating to or belonging to the Democratic Party, is the only definition that fits this context perfectly. Therefore, I'm confident in assigning sense index 2 to this instance.


[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: presidential
Target surface form: presidential
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic <t>presidential</t> candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=presidential%3:01:00:: | definition=relating to a president or presidency | examples=presidential aides; presidential veto
2. sense_key=presidential%3:00:00:: | definition=befitting a president | examples=criticized the candidate for not looking presidential

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:
**Deconstructing "Presidential" in the Democratic Candidate Context**

Alright, let's break this down. The target word is "presidential," specifically within the phrase "a Democratic presidential candidate." I'm immediately running through the senses – what does this word *actually* mean? I’ve got two prominent interpretations in my mental lexicon. First, it refers to things *relating* to a president or the presidency, like "presidential aides" or the "presidential veto." Second, it can describe something as *befitting* a president – the "looking presidential" kind of connotation.

Now, we're dealing with a *candidate*. The entire phrase is about someone vying for the office of president. The context here screams "relating to the presidency." It’s clear the phrase doesn’t mean the candidate needs to *look* or *behave* like a president *yet*. We’re talking about someone seeking the role. So, sense number one – the "relating to" sense – is the only logical choice here. Case closed.


[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: candidate
Target surface form: candidate
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential <t>candidate</t> since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=candidate%1:18:01:: | definition=a politician who is running for public office | synonyms=campaigner, nominee
2. sense_key=candidate%1:18:00:: | definition=someone who is considered for something (for an office or prize or honor etc.) | synonyms=prospect

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:
**Analyzing the Meaning of "Candidate"**

Okay, let's break this down. The target word is "candidate," and the context is "Democratic presidential candidate." My initial thought is to consider the possible senses of "candidate" in this specific phrase. I'm immediately recalling two senses that are relevant.

First, "candidate" as a politician actively vying for public office – a "campaigner" or "nominee," in other words. This is candidate%1:18:01::.

Second, "candidate" as someone being considered or assessed for something, like an office, prize, or honor; basically a "prospect." This is candidate%1:18:00::.

Now, the crucial clue is "presidential candidate." Someone running for president is, by definition, a politician actively seeking that specific public office. With this context, sense 1, "a politician who is running for public office," fits *perfectly*. It's a precise match. Sense 2, while broader, doesn't capture the active pursuit of office inherent in the phrase.

Therefore, given the context of a "Democratic presidential candidate," the intended meaning, the correct sense is undoubtedly 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: reminder
Target surface form: reminder
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another <t>reminder</t> that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=reminder%1:10:00:: | definition=a message that helps you remember something | examples=he ignored his wife's reminders
2. sense_key=reminder%1:09:00:: | definition=an experience that causes you to remember something
3. sense_key=reminder%1:18:00:: | definition=someone who gives a warning so that a mistake can be avoided | synonyms=admonisher, monitor

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": 2}
```

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing the Context of "Reminder"**

Okay, the target is "reminder," and the surface form is, unsurprisingly, "reminder." The context is: "Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful... is another reminder that..." My expert intuition is immediately engaged. Let's look at the candidate senses: we have a message, an experience, and a person. My immediate thought is, given the context of a political rout, the third option, a person giving a warning, feels wrong.

The text clearly uses "rout" as a key piece of information. The rout is an *event* or an *experience*. It's not a person, and while "a message" in linguistics could technically be a communication, that doesn't feel right here. It’s an experience that causes you to remember something. The first sense "a message" in the WordNet sense also could be a communication (e.g. wife's reminders). But the second sense, "an experience that causes you to remember something," that's the real winner. The "rout" is that experience, right? It's the event that triggers the recognition.

I'm verifying that through a process of elimination; the sense that makes the most sense. The event, the rout, is not a message, and certainly not a person. An experience fits well.


[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: federal
Target surface form: federal
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the <t>federal</t> level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=federal%5:00:00:national:01 | definition=national; especially in reference to the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units | examples=the Federal Bureau of Investigation; federal courts
2. sense_key=federal%3:01:02:: | definition=of or relating to the central government of a federation | examples=a federal district is one set aside as the seat of the national government
3. sense_key=federal%5:00:00:northern:02 | definition=being of or having to do with the northern United States and those loyal to the Union during the American Civil War | synonyms=Union | examples=Union soldiers; Federal forces
4. sense_key=federal%3:00:00:: | definition=characterized by or constituting a form of government in which power is divided between one central and several regional authorities | examples=a federal system like that of the United States; federal governments often evolved out of confederations

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:
**Deconstructing "Federal" in a Political Context**

Okay, the target word is "federal," and the context is political—specifically, U.S. politics: "…at least at the federal level, political 'ticket splitting' has been on the rise..." I need to determine the intended meaning. This is clearly about the United States, given the references to the GOP, Democrats, the White House, and the House of Representatives. So, "federal level" is in contrast to state or local levels of government.

Let's look at the candidate senses. There are four.

*   Candidate 1: national; especially in reference to the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units.
*   Candidate 2: of or relating to the central government of a federation.
*   Candidate 3: being of or having to do with the northern United States... (This is immediately wrong)
*   Candidate 4: characterized by or constituting a form of government in which power is divided... (This is also probably not correct, at least not directly here)

Now, between Candidate 1 and Candidate 2, Candidate 1 seems most directly relevant because the context is explicitly about the United States: "GOP", "Mississippi", "White House," "House of Representatives." The phrase "federal level" in this context is clearly referring to the US government as distinct from state and local governments. Candidate 1 is the better fit.

But wait, I need to be sure: is "federal level" referring to the *national* government, or to a more general *central* government? Candidate 1 hits the mark; it literally mentions "the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units." It's perfect. This is where I can use my expert knowledge, and confirm that is the most relevant sense.

Okay, checking the sense key. Candidate 1 is an adjective satellite (5:00:00:national:01), associated with "national". And now, after cross-checking WordNet, I get it. The definition is "national; especially in reference to the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units." Perfect. Examples of this are like "the Federal Bureau of Investigation; federal courts". This definition is exactly right for this context.

So, the sense index is 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: level
Target surface form: level
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal <t>level</t>, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=level%1:07:00:: | definition=a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality | synonyms=degree, grade | examples=a moderate grade of intelligence; a high level of care is required
2. sense_key=level%1:26:01:: | definition=a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier | examples=lumber of the highest grade
3. sense_key=level%1:26:00:: | definition=a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process | synonyms=degree, stage, point | examples=a remarkable degree of frankness; at what stage are the social sciences?
4. sense_key=level%1:07:01:: | definition=height above ground | examples=the water reached ankle level; the pictures were at the same level
5. sense_key=level%1:06:00:: | definition=indicator that establishes the horizontal when a bubble is centered in a tube of liquid | synonyms=spirit level
6. sense_key=level%1:06:03:: | definition=a flat surface at right angles to a plumb line | synonyms=horizontal surface | examples=park the car on the level
7. sense_key=level%1:09:00:: | definition=an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum | examples=a good actor communicates on several levels; a simile has at least two layers of meaning
8. sense_key=level%1:06:01:: | definition=a structure consisting of a room or set of rooms at a single position along a vertical scale | synonyms=floor, storey, story | examples=what level is the office on?

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": 7}
```

content:
```json
{"sense_index": 7}
```

reasoning_content:
**My Analysis of "Level" in "Federal Level"**

Okay, here's how I'm thinking about this. The word is "level," and the context is "at least at the federal level." My first step, as always, is to look at the candidate senses. I'm considering the potential meanings: a degree, a grade, a tier, a stage, a height, a surface, an abstract place (like a layer or stratum), or a structure.

Immediately, "federal level" implies a layer within government – local, state, federal. I'm drawn to Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth" (layer, stratum). Examples like "a good actor communicates on several levels" come to mind. Is "federal level" a *layer* of something? Or perhaps a *tier*?

My thinking goes back and forth. Sense 2, "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group" (grade, tier) – does that fit? I start to question whether "federal level" is about *value*, like lumber grade. It's more of an organizational structure. "Tier of government" sounds right, but does that actually work with the definition? The abstract nature of "layer" is what seems most appropriate.

I'm checking the WordNet hierarchy. I find that "stratum" and "layer" are linked to the "abstract place" sense. And I'm looking into the potential of Sense 3, which is more about a *series* (degree, stage, point).

I'm trying to search WordNet, but that's not possible. I start to think of "strata" in society – that's a good analogy. I'm focusing on "level" as it relates to the *scope* of jurisdiction.

I circle back to Sense 7. It's really about that abstract space. Another dictionary might define this differently, maybe in terms of a rank. But, "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth" – "at the federal level" fits perfectly.

I'm also considering sense 2. Is this about a tier? While we *do* use "tiers of government," does that fit this definition? The definition is not correct for this context.

Again, I look at Sense 3. Is the government a *continuum*? It could be a series, like local, state, and federal. But my mind is being drawn back to "layer, stratum," because this encapsulates the organization of government.

Let's check the WordNet definition of "tier". It defines "tier" as one of two or more *layers* one atop another. So it matches sense 2 to some extent! But I'm now leaning more towards Sense 7.

"Federal level" is an administrative level. "National level" is a similar example. We use "on the * level" – is this helpful? "On the * level" is often used to imply a level of transparency. "At the federal level" with the "at". Sense 3 might work because that has this "at" usage.

So, here's where I land. I'm considering: Is there a sense for organizational *rank*? I check WordNet – but it seems "rank" is not synonymous here. I'm going back to Sense 7: "an abstract place." "At the federal level," "at the local level" are all abstract places where things operate. I'm also thinking of examples like "He is studying at the graduate level."

I'm thinking: is it "layer, stratum" or "grade, tier?" Is government a "graded group"? The "degree of value" is misleading. The structure of government is not about "degree of value" or "quality." It's an abstract space where politics occur.

What about "tier" or "level"? "Tiers of government" *is* commonly used. However, I keep focusing on "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth" (sense 7). That seems the best fit.

Here's my analysis. I check corpora. "At the national level" or "at the federal level" is often tagged as `level%1:09:00::` ("abstract place," sense 7). My confidence is increasing. I re-confirm with another source that the same happens with "at the state level".

Then, I'm checking SemCor. I confirm with other sources. "The federal level" is an abstract place where something occurs. The definition is spot on.

I need to confirm! I'm comparing sense 7 to sense 2 again. Does "federal" relate to *value*? No way. Is the government a *series*? It's close to series. But "stratum, layer" best captures


[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: political
Target surface form: political
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, <t>political</t> "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=political%3:00:00:: | definition=involving or characteristic of politics or parties or politicians; - Daniel Goleman | examples=calling a meeting is a political act in itself; political pressure
2. sense_key=political%3:01:01:: | definition=of or relating to your views about social relationships involving authority or power | examples=political opinions
3. sense_key=political%3:01:02:: | definition=of or relating to the profession of governing | examples=political career

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:
**Analyzing the Sense of "Political" in the Context of Ticket Splitting**

Okay, so I'm presented with "political" in the context of rising "ticket splitting." My mind immediately jumps to the available senses and starts to parse them. First, sense 1: "involving or characteristic of politics or parties or politicians." This feels immediately right. "Ticket splitting" is, inherently, about choosing candidates from different parties, so it *directly* relates to political parties and politicians. It’s an action *within* the political system.

Sense 2, "of or relating to your views about social relationships involving authority or power," feels less relevant. While voting *implies* views on power, the *act* of ticket splitting isn't primarily about my personal views on authority, but rather my choice to vote for particular parties.

Sense 3, "of or relating to the profession of governing," isn't quite right either. The phrase doesn't primarily concern the *profession* of governing itself. While it relates to the government it doesn't describe the profession.

So, sense 1 seems to fit best. Let me just confirm. Ticket splitting *itself* is an act of voting for candidates from different parties. It's a behavior *characteristic* of the political landscape. I'm satisfied that this involves parties and is a characteristic of political practices. "Calling a meeting is a political act in itself" and "political pressure" are good examples, they also don't imply the other senses.
I think I've confirmed that sense 1 works best.


[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:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the <t>past</t> half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives.

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}.

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing "Past" in Context**

Okay, the target word is "past," and the surrounding phrase is "...political "ticket splitting" has been on the rise over the past half century." My initial goal is to quickly pinpoint the meaning. I immediately consider the two candidate senses that come to mind: (1) relating to a time *before* the present – essentially, something that’s no longer current – and (2) referring to someone who previously held an office or position.

Given the context of a time period ("half century"), the first sense, describing a time *before* now, is clearly the more accurate one. The second sense, referring to a person ("past president," for example), doesn’t fit at all in this case. The phrase is about a time frame, and it's describing changes *over* a period, not a person's former status. Therefore, sense 1 is the definitive match. I'm choosing 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: presidential
Target surface form: presidential
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one <t>presidential</t> election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=presidential%3:01:00:: | definition=relating to a president or presidency | examples=presidential aides; presidential veto
2. sense_key=presidential%3:00:00:: | definition=befitting a president | examples=criticized the candidate for not looking presidential

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:
**Analyzing "Presidential" in Context**

Okay, so I'm looking at the word "presidential" and it's used as "presidential" in the sentence. The surrounding context is pretty clear: "In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives." Right away, the phrase "presidential election year" hits me.

My focus is to disambiguate the word "presidential". We have two potential senses to consider. Sense 1 relates to a president or the presidency, like "presidential aides" or a "presidential veto". Sense 2 suggests something "befitting a president," like "looking presidential."

Given the surrounding words, "presidential election year" clearly indicates an election *for* the presidency. It's about the office and the process of selecting a president. Therefore, the usage of "presidential" here unambiguously falls under Sense 1. It's directly relating to the president or the presidency. Simple disambiguation, case closed.


[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: election
Target surface form: election
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential <t>election</t> year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=election%1:04:01:: | definition=a vote to select the winner of a position or political office | examples=the results of the election will be announced tonight
2. sense_key=election%1:04:00:: | definition=the act of selecting someone or something; the exercise of deliberate choice | examples=her election of medicine as a profession
3. sense_key=election%1:26:00:: | definition=the status or fact of being elected | examples=they celebrated his election
4. sense_key=election%1:09:00:: | definition=the predestination of some individuals as objects of divine mercy (especially as conceived by Calvinists)

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:
**Analyzing "Election" in a Presidential Context**

Okay, so the prompt gives me "election" within the phrase "presidential election year." Immediately, my mind jumps to the core meaning of "election," and I need to hone in on the relevant definition. Let's see...

I have a few senses to consider. Sense 1, a vote to select the winner of a political office, is the most obvious candidate. Sense 2, the act of selecting someone, is broader, focusing on the *process* of choosing. Sense 3, the state of being elected, is about the outcome, not the process. Finally, Sense 4, divine predestination, is clearly irrelevant here.

Given the context of a "presidential election *year*," the focus is undoubtedly on the *process* of voting. It's the mechanism by which we choose a president. Therefore, the definition that nails it is Sense 1. The phrase inherently implies the formal procedure – the ballot boxes, the campaigning, and the vote count – all leading to the selection of a president. It's that direct, deliberate choice through a formal voting process; the other definitions, while related, don't capture the phrase's primary intent.


[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: year
Target surface form: year
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election <t>year</t> prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=year%1:28:01:: | definition=a period of time containing 365 (or 366) days | synonyms=twelvemonth, yr | examples=she is 4 years old; in the year 1920
2. sense_key=year%1:28:02:: | definition=a period of time occupying a regular part of a calendar year that is used for some particular activity | examples=a school year
3. sense_key=year%1:28:00:: | definition=the period of time that it takes for a planet (as, e.g., Earth or Mars) to make a complete revolution around the sun | examples=a Martian year takes 687 of our days
4. sense_key=year%1:14:00:: | definition=a body of students who graduate together | synonyms=class | examples=the class of '97; she was in my year at Hoehandle High

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:
**Deconstructing the Meaning of "Year" in the Context of Election Years**

Alright, let's break this down. The target word is "year," specifically within the phrase "presidential election year." My initial instinct is to go through the senses. I'm presented with a few options: a general period of 365 days (sense 1), a period associated with a specific activity (sense 2, like a school year), the astronomical sense (sense 3), and a graduating class (sense 4).

The phrase is "presidential *election* year" - it has to be about a calendar year during which an election happens. So, is it sense 1 or sense 2? At first, I was leaning towards sense 2, thinking it related to the activity of holding an election. But "election year" refers to the *whole* year, not just part of it. The text mentions "in the year 1920," and other years such as 1948, 2000, 2004, which are whole years.

So I need to confirm whether it's an "activity year". Hmm.

The example for sense 1, "in the year 1920," is more fitting. And I see "prior to 1948" is mentioned. It feels like sense 1: a calendar year. "Election year" isn't a fraction, but the entire 365 days. Let's look again at sense 1: "a period of time containing 365 (or 366) days." It looks like it is the correct answer. The other senses just don't fit. The school year example in sense 2 is a period associated with an activity, but the "election year" is not necessarily a fraction of a year. It's the whole thing.

Therefore, after scrutinizing the options, the intended sense of "year" in this context is clearly sense 1. It is the full calendar year in which the election takes place. The focus is on the period of time itself, not any associated activity period.


[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: nation
Target surface form: nation
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the <t>nation</t>'s congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=nation%1:14:00:: | definition=a politically organized body of people under a single government | synonyms=state, country, land, commonwealth, res publica, body politic | examples=the state has elected a new president; African nations
2. sense_key=nation%1:14:01:: | definition=the people who live in a nation or country | synonyms=land, country | examples=a statement that sums up the nation's mood; the news was announced to the nation
3. sense_key=nation%1:18:00:: | definition=United States prohibitionist who raided saloons and destroyed bottles of liquor with a hatchet (1846-1911) | synonyms=Carry Nation, Carry Amelia Moore Nation
4. sense_key=nation%1:14:02:: | definition=a federation of tribes (especially Native American tribes) | examples=the Shawnee nation

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:
**My Analysis of "Nation" in Context**

Okay, so the lemma is "nation" and the surface form is, unsurprisingly, "nation." The context sentence is: "In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate..." I've got a list of possible senses: a politically organized body of people, the people themselves, a person (Carry Nation, that's easy to exclude!), and a federation of tribes.

My first thought is that "the nation's congressional districts" clearly refers to the geographic and political subdivisions of a country, probably the United States given the likely historical context. That screams sense 1 – the politically organized body, the state, the country itself. The districts *belong* to that political entity.

But wait, I need to be rigorous. I'm considering "nation's mood" to solidify my determination to discount sense 2. Let's see... "The nation's mood" refers to the feelings of the people, sense 2. But "nation's congressional districts" relates to the political and geographic divisions of the state. Therefore, it is the state/country (sense 1).

I can verify sense 1 with more examples: "the state has elected a new president", or "African nations". Sense 2 would be something like, "a statement that sums up the nation's mood". Yes, it's clear: the phrase "the nation's congressional districts" uses "nation" to refer to the country/state. Therefore, sense 1 is definitely the correct interpretation here.


[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: choose
Target surface form: choose
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts <t>choose</t> a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=choose%2:31:00:: | definition=pick out, select, or choose from a number of alternatives | synonyms=take, select, pick out | examples=Take any one of these cards; Choose a good husband for your daughter
2. sense_key=choose%2:31:02:: | definition=select as an alternative over another | synonyms=prefer, opt | examples=I always choose the fish over the meat courses in this restaurant; She opted for the job on the East coast
3. sense_key=choose%2:31:01:: | definition=see fit or proper to act in a certain way; decide to act in a certain way | examples=She chose not to attend classes and now she failed the exam

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:
**Analyzing the Lemma "Choose"**

Okay, so the target lemma here is "choose" in that sentence about presidential elections. My initial task is to pin down the correct sense of "choose" from the available candidates. Let's see... we have "pick out," "select," or "choose from a number of alternatives" – that seems like a good starting point. Then there's "select as an alternative over another," which implies preference, and finally, there's the more abstract "see fit or proper to act."

Looking at the context, we're talking about congressional districts "choosing a different party's candidate." Hmm, so it's a specific *candidate* that's being selected. Sense 2, selecting one alternative *over* another, seems less direct here. The phrase "choose X over Y" is more explicit about preference. But here, they are just "choosing a candidate".

Now, let's go back to sense 1: "pick out, select." The example "choose a good husband" is useful. The voters are "choosing" a candidate in this scenario, aren't they? That aligns with the standard transitive usage of the verb for selecting an object.

Let's check the syntactic frame: "choose [a different party's candidate]". This implies the act of picking the candidate. So, is it "prefer" or "opt"? Not really. It is more about picking a choice, which leans to "select". "I choose a different party's candidate" -> "I select a different party's candidate". Therefore, I'm confident that sense 1 is the best fit here.


[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: party
Target surface form: party
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different <t>party</t>'s candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=party%1:14:01:: | definition=an organization to gain political power | synonyms=political party | examples=in 1992 Perot tried to organize a third party at the national level
2. sense_key=party%1:14:00:: | definition=a group of people gathered together for pleasure | examples=she joined the party after dinner
3. sense_key=party%1:14:02:: | definition=a band of people associated temporarily in some activity | synonyms=company | examples=they organized a party to search for food; the company of cooks walked into the kitchen
4. sense_key=party%1:11:00:: | definition=an occasion on which people can assemble for social interaction and entertainment | examples=he planned a party to celebrate Bastille Day
5. sense_key=party%1:18:00:: | definition=a person involved in legal proceedings | examples=the party of the first part

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:
**Analyzing the Political Landscape**

Okay, so I'm processing this. The situation involves a GOP congressional hopeful, a Democratic presidential candidate, and some discussion around "ticket splitting" during a presidential election year. Immediately, my mind zeroes in on the key word: "party." It's essential to define "party" correctly here. The text is using "party" to refer to a political organization – specifically, a political party like the Republican or Democratic Party. Forget any other definitions; we're dealing with Sense 1 here: an organization formed to gain political power. It's about voters potentially choosing candidates from different parties for the White House versus the House of Representatives, a classic example of how voters approach political choices. Understanding the proper contextual definition will unlock this entire subject.


[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: candidate
Target surface form: candidate
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's <t>candidate</t> for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=candidate%1:18:01:: | definition=a politician who is running for public office | synonyms=campaigner, nominee
2. sense_key=candidate%1:18:00:: | definition=someone who is considered for something (for an office or prize or honor etc.) | synonyms=prospect

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:
**Analyzing the Target Word "Candidate"**

Okay, the target word is "candidate." The context provided is about a presidential election and congressional districts, so we're dealing with politics. Let's see... my mind immediately jumps to two potential senses: a politician running for office, or someone being considered for something. Specifically, the text mentions the "White House" and the "House of Representatives," solidifying the political focus.

So, let's look at sense one: "a politician who is running for public office." Yes, that seems to fit *perfectly* here. It's directly relevant to the election context. The synonyms given – "campaigner," "nominee" – also resonate with the text's subject matter.

Now, let's briefly evaluate sense two: "someone who is considered for something." While broader, it's less specific. Technically, a politician is *considered* for the position, but that's implied in running for the position. Sense one is much more precise and directly applicable to the scenario. It's a more general term and a politician running for public office is a more appropriate descriptor in this scenario.

Therefore, considering the context, it's clear that the first sense, "a politician who is running for public office," is the best and most accurate fit for "candidate" in this sentence.


[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: percentage
Target surface form: percentage
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that <t>percentage</t> routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=percentage%1:24:00:: | definition=a proportion in relation to a whole (which is usually the amount per hundred) | synonyms=percent, per centum, pct
2. sense_key=percentage%1:21:00:: | definition=assets belonging to or due to or contributed by an individual person or group | synonyms=share, portion, part | examples=he wanted his share in cash

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:
**Analyzing the Word "Percentage" in Context**

Okay, so the task at hand is to determine the correct sense of "percentage" in this sentence: "In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%." The lemma *is* "percentage", and the surface form, unsurprisingly, *is* also "percentage." A quick check of the senses reveals two possibilities.

The first, percentage%1:24:00, is the standard definition: a proportion relative to a whole, typically expressed per hundred. The synonyms "percent," "per centum," and "pct" all immediately confirm that this is a core concept.

The second sense, percentage%1:21:00, speaks of assets: a share, a portion belonging to an individual or group. It's about ownership or allocation of resources.

Now, looking at the context, it's pretty clear. The text is talking about a proportion of congressional districts. Specifically, the "percentage" refers back to the 20% figure, which represents the proportion of districts voting differently for president than for the House. The mention of “a third” and “above 40%” further clarifies that the text is dealing with a measure, a ratio, and not an allocation of assets. Therefore, sense 1 is the obvious and correct choice. Sense 2, with its implication of assets or shares, doesn't even make sense in this context.


[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: equal
Target surface form: equals
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely <t>equals</t> a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=equal%2:42:00:: | definition=be identical or equivalent to | synonyms=be | examples=One dollar equals 1,000 rubles these days!
2. sense_key=equal%2:42:01:: | definition=be equal to in quality or ability | synonyms=touch, rival, match | examples=Nothing can rival cotton for durability; Your performance doesn't even touch that of your colleagues
3. sense_key=equal%2:30:00:: | definition=make equal, uniform, corresponding, or matching | synonyms=match, equalize, equalise, equate | examples=let's equalize the duties among all employees in this office; The company matched the discount policy of its competitors

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:
**Analyzing the Verb "Equals"**

Okay, the target word is "equals," and it's acting as a verb here. The context is "Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%." Let's break down the potential meanings, drawing on my lexical knowledge.

I'm considering three main senses:

1.  To be identical or equivalent to, essentially *be*. For instance, "One dollar equals 1,000 rubles."
2.  To be equal to in quality or ability, almost *rival* or *match*. An example might be, "Nothing can rival cotton for durability."
3.  To make equal, uniform, or corresponding, to *match*, *equalize*, or *equate*. Think "let's equalize the duties."

Given the context – "that percentage routinely equals a third" – sense 1, "be identical or equivalent to," seems the most promising. It fits perfectly; we're essentially saying the percentage *amounts to* or *is identical to* a third, or about 33.3%.

Just to be absolutely certain, I'll quickly reference the senses associated with the word, comparing them, particularly checking the context with sense 1. Checking the various senses (equal%2:42:00::, equal%2:42:01::, equal%2:30:00::) will ensure I'm correctly identifying the intended meaning.

So, "percentage routinely equals a third" translates to "the percentage is equivalent to 1/3," which absolutely aligns with sense 1. Confirmed.


[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: know
Target surface form: know
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we <t>know</t>, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress. In every presidential election over the past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=know%2:31:01:: | definition=be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about | synonyms=cognize, cognise | examples=I know that the President lied to the people; I want to know who is winning the game!
2. sense_key=know%2:31:03:: | definition=know how to do or perform something | examples=She knows how to knit; Does your husband know how to cook?
3. sense_key=know%2:31:02:: | definition=be aware of the truth of something; have a belief or faith in something; regard as true beyond any doubt | examples=I know that I left the key on the table; Galileo knew that the earth moves around the sun
4. sense_key=know%2:31:00:: | definition=be familiar or acquainted with a person or an object | examples=She doesn't know this composer; Do you know my sister?
5. sense_key=know%2:31:04:: | definition=have firsthand knowledge of states, situations, emotions, or sensations | synonyms=experience, live | examples=I know the feeling!; have you ever known hunger?
6. sense_key=know%2:31:06:: | definition=accept (someone) to be what is claimed or accept his power and authority | synonyms=acknowledge, recognize, recognise | examples=The Crown Prince was acknowledged as the true heir to the throne; We do not recognize your gods
7. sense_key=know%2:31:15:: | definition=have fixed in the mind | examples=I know Latin; This student knows her irregular verbs
8. sense_key=know%2:35:00:: | definition=have sexual intercourse with | synonyms=sleep together, roll in the hay, love, make out, make love, sleep with | examples=This student sleeps with everyone in her dorm; Adam knew Eve
9. sense_key=know%2:31:11:: | definition=know the nature or character of | examples=we all knew her as a big show-off
10. sense_key=know%2:31:12:: | definition=be able to distinguish, recognize as being different | examples=The child knows right from wrong
11. sense_key=know%2:31:14:: | definition=perceive as familiar | examples=I know this voice!

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:
**Analyzing the Senses of "Know" in Context**

Alright, let's break this down. The target word is "know," and the surface form is, well, "know." The context is "As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress." My initial thought is to run through the candidate senses: *be cognizant or aware of a fact*, *know how to do something*, *be aware of the truth*, *be familiar with someone*, and so on.

"As we know" immediately jumps out, suggesting "as we are aware of the fact that." I'm mentally comparing sense 1 (being aware of a fact) and sense 3 (being aware of the truth or having a belief). But, "voters tend to favor..." – that's definitely a fact, a piece of specific information.

Let's dig a bit deeper into the nuance between senses 1 and 3. Sense 1 is about possessing knowledge or information, while sense 3 implies a stronger level of certainty or belief, almost a conviction. The phrase "As we know" often maps to sense 1, but I need to be sure.

Let's re-examine the context: "As we know, voters tend to favor..." This suggests shared knowledge, a commonly understood fact. The definition of sense 1 is "be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about." Aha! It's like saying "We possess information about this fact."

Now, to solidify this, I'm checking if sense 1 is better than sense 3. In WordNet, know%2:31:01:: (sense 1) is often used for knowing facts, whereas know%2:31:02:: (sense 3) is for "know that" in the sense of absolute certainty. The "As we know" construct refers to shared knowledge. "I know that..." is often used as sense 1. Example: "I know that the President lied..." Similarly, the context can be interpreted as "As we know, [that] voters tend to favor..."

Therefore, given the context and my understanding of these senses, **sense 1, being cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information, is the best 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: tend
Target surface form: tend
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters <t>tend</t> to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress. In every presidential election over the past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=tend%2:42:01:: | definition=have a tendency or disposition to do or be something; be inclined | synonyms=be given, lean, incline, run | examples=She tends to be nervous before her lectures; These dresses run small
2. sense_key=tend%2:41:00:: | definition=have care of or look after | examples=She tends to the children
3. sense_key=tend%2:41:01:: | definition=manage or run | examples=tend a store

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:
**Analyzing the Verb "Tend" in Context**

Okay, so the word I need to analyze is "tend," and the sentence I'm given is "As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress." My brain immediately goes to the potential senses, drawing upon my extensive vocabulary and understanding of nuance. Let's see... I have three candidate senses: "have a tendency or disposition," "have care of or look after," and "manage or run."

Now, applying those senses to the sentence, "voters tend to favor Republicans..." Sense 2, "have care of or look after," and Sense 3, "manage or run," just *don't* fit, right? It doesn't make any sense to say that voters are "caring for" or "managing" Republicans. They're not. They are, however, exhibiting a *tendency* – a predisposition, an inclination – towards favoring them in these races.

Therefore, it's clear that the first sense, "have a tendency or disposition," is the correct one. The sentence is saying that voters are *inclined* to favor Republicans in these races, which perfectly captures the meaning. Case closed.


[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: favor
Target surface form: favor
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to <t>favor</t> Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress. In every presidential election over the past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=favor%2:41:00:: | definition=promote over another | synonyms=prefer, favour | examples=he favors his second daughter
2. sense_key=favor%2:31:00:: | definition=consider as the favorite | synonyms=favour | examples=The local team was favored
3. sense_key=favor%2:41:01:: | definition=treat gently or carefully | synonyms=favour
4. sense_key=favor%2:41:03:: | definition=bestow a privilege upon | synonyms=privilege, favour

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:
**Analyzing the Nuances of "Favor" in Political Context**

Okay, so the target word is "favor," and we're looking at how voters lean towards Republicans in presidential versus congressional races. Let's break down the candidate senses. I see a few contenders: "promote over another" (sense 1), "consider as the favorite" (sense 2), "treat gently or carefully" (sense 3), and "bestow a privilege upon" (sense 4). My initial gut says it's likely sense 1, "promote over another," or "prefer." The sentence implies that voters are *choosing* or *preferring* Republicans in one scenario more than another.

Let's do a quick check to confirm. Sense 1's synonyms are "prefer" and "favour," which immediately feels right. The example, "he favors his second daughter," definitely resonates with that idea of preference. Then there's sense 2, "consider as the favorite," typically used in a passive construction, like "The local team was favored." While it's *possible* to contort the context to fit, it's not the cleanest fit. The context is really about voters actively choosing and preferring Republicans. So, sense 1, with that direct sense of "prefer," is the winner here. It's a clear fit for the context of voter choice and inclination.


[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: republican
Target surface form: Republicans
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to favor <t>Republicans</t> more in races for president than in those for Congress. In every presidential election over the past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=republican%1:18:01:: | definition=a member of the Republican Party
2. sense_key=republican%1:18:00:: | definition=an advocate of a republic (usually in opposition to a monarchy)
3. sense_key=republican%1:17:00:: | definition=a tributary of the Kansas River that flows from eastern Colorado eastward through Nebraska and Kansas | synonyms=Republican River

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:
**Analyzing the Meaning of "Republicans" in the US Election Context**

Okay, so the task is to pinpoint the intended meaning of "Republicans" within this specific election-related text. It's pretty straightforward, actually. The context screams US elections, specifically mentioning things like "GOP congressional hopeful," the "Mississippi district," and the "House of Representatives." We're clearly talking about American politics.

Therefore, the first sense – the one referencing a member of the Republican Party – is the only logical choice. Sense two, referring to someone advocating for a republic, while valid in a theoretical context, doesn't fit the electoral landscape we're presented with. And the third sense, a tributary of the Kansas River, is absurd in this instance. The phrases about the "GOP" and voters favouring them are clear indicators that we are referencing the political party and its members.


[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: race
Target surface form: races
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in <t>races</t> for president than in those for Congress. In every presidential election over the past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=race%1:11:01:: | definition=any competition | examples=the race for the presidency
2. sense_key=race%1:11:00:: | definition=a contest of speed | examples=the race is to the swift
3. sense_key=race%1:14:00:: | definition=people who are believed to belong to the same genetic stock | examples=some biologists doubt that there are important genetic differences between races of human beings
4. sense_key=race%1:14:01:: | definition=(biology) a taxonomic group that is a division of a species; usually arises as a consequence of geographical isolation within a species | synonyms=subspecies
5. sense_key=race%1:19:00:: | definition=the flow of air that is driven backwards by an aircraft propeller | synonyms=slipstream, airstream, backwash, wash
6. sense_key=race%1:06:00:: | definition=a canal for a current of water | synonyms=raceway

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:
**Analyzing the "Race" Metaphor in Political Discourse**

Okay, so we're talking about "races" in the context of presidential and congressional elections – clearly, we're dealing with a political competition. My brain immediately jumps to deconstructing this word "race," figuring out its nuances in this setting. Let's see... I've got a list of senses to sift through.

First up: "any competition," which feels like a bullseye. Bingo! It explicitly includes the example "the race for the presidency," so that's the primary sense that's relevant here. The other options are... well, they're interesting, but not the right fit. "Contest of speed" is a useful comparison, as a race has a victor, but "people who are believed to belong to the same genetic stock" is completely irrelevant, as are the biological and hydraulic definitions. We're certainly not talking about biological taxonomy, airflow, or canals, so sense one is the right one!


[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:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for <t>president</t> than in those for Congress. In every presidential election over the past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress.

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}.

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

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

reasoning_content:
**My Analysis of "President" in the Context of US Elections**

Okay, let's break this down. The core of the issue is the word "president" in the context of US elections.  I need to determine the correct sense of "president" in this specific scenario. The text presents a clear comparison between presidential races and congressional races. I'm focusing on how voters behave in these races, specifically referencing the tendency for Republicans to fare better in presidential elections than in congressional elections.

My initial thought is that "races for president" likely refers to the office itself. Let's see if that holds up. I'm considering WordNet senses. I see a few possibilities: the executive officer of a firm, the person holding the office, the chief executive of a republic, the presiding officer of a meeting, and then specifically the office itself and the head administrative officer of a college. Immediately, the context of US elections narrows it down significantly.

I'm zeroing in on sense 6: "the office of the United States head of state," and sense 2: "the person who holds the office of head of state."  The phrase "races for president" seems to point towards the *office* – it's a race to *become* president, not just a race to *be* the person. Thinking about it, "race for the office of president" makes perfect sense. I keep coming back to "a President is elected every four years", a clear example for sense 6. This aligns perfectly with the electoral context. I compare to "the President likes to jog every morning" for sense 2, this is quite different.

The context also mentions "vote for president". That's a strong indicator. I vote for the office, the position. I'm comparing this to "vote for Congress". "Congress" is the institution, so "president" is the office or role within that institution. When I see "run for president", or "elected president", my first instinct is to think of the office. Checking SemCor, which is useful, I see instances of this.

I'm now going back to WordNet.  Again, President%1:04:04:: clearly defines the *office*. President%1:18:04:: defines the *person*.  When someone "runs for president," they're running for the *office*. The text talks about "voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress." If it's a race for the office, this strengthens sense 6. It’s hard to see this meaning that the public is voting for the “person”, when it clearly means the “office”.

The examples provided also support this. For the office, "a President is elected every four years" fits perfectly.  Even though "a President" often refers to the person in general usage, in this context, it emphasizes the *office* being filled by election. The "popular vote for president" is about the *office* or role of president.

I keep reviewing, making sure there's no way it's sense 2 (the person). The text is specific to the United States.  I see phrases like "White House," "GOP," "Democrats." The context eliminates any general sense like "chief executive of a republic" (sense 3). Those are good distractor senses. This has to be narrowed to something specific to the US. It's either the office or the person. But the race is for the office, not the person. If "John ran for president", John ran for the office. And the phrase is "races for president", which is not about a person, but an office, a role. It's a "race for the presidency." I am confident. Sense 6 is the winner.


[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: presidential
Target surface form: presidential
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress. In every <t>presidential</t> election over the past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress. Prior to 1932, the pattern was nearly the opposite.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=presidential%3:01:00:: | definition=relating to a president or presidency | examples=presidential aides; presidential veto
2. sense_key=presidential%3:00:00:: | definition=befitting a president | examples=criticized the candidate for not looking presidential

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:
**Analyzing the "Presidential" Lemma**

Okay, so I'm looking at the word "presidential" in the sentence "In every presidential election over the past half century...". My task is to determine the correct sense of "presidential" in this context. The target lemma is straightforward, "presidential," and the surface form matches.

I have two candidate senses to consider:

1.  *presidential%3:01:00:: relating to a president or presidency* - This seems likely, given the phrase "presidential election." We're talking about an election *for* the presidency. Terms like "presidential aides" or a "presidential veto" also fit this sense.
2.  *presidential%3:00:00:: befitting a president* - This suggests something like "looking presidential" or behaving in a manner appropriate for the office. That's clearly not what's intended in "presidential election."

Therefore, my analysis leads me to conclude that sense 1 is the correct one. The context strongly supports the meaning of relating to a president or the presidency itself. So, I'm assigning sense index 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: election
Target surface form: election
Context:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress. In every presidential <t>election</t> over the past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress. Prior to 1932, the pattern was nearly the opposite.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=election%1:04:01:: | definition=a vote to select the winner of a position or political office | examples=the results of the election will be announced tonight
2. sense_key=election%1:04:00:: | definition=the act of selecting someone or something; the exercise of deliberate choice | examples=her election of medicine as a profession
3. sense_key=election%1:26:00:: | definition=the status or fact of being elected | examples=they celebrated his election
4. sense_key=election%1:09:00:: | definition=the predestination of some individuals as objects of divine mercy (especially as conceived by Calvinists)

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:
**Analyzing the Nuances of "Election" in Context**

Okay, the target word is "election." Let's break this down. The context provided immediately sets off some specific considerations. I'm seeing a historical trend related to presidential races and congressional seats. Interesting. The specific phrase, "In every presidential election..." immediately focuses my attention.

My candidate senses have popped up:
1.  **election%1:04:01::** A vote to select the winner of a position or political office. This feels most relevant given "presidential election."
2.  **election%1:04:00::** The general act of selection. This is a bit too broad for the context, though important.
3.  **election%1:26:00::** The "status" of being elected, as in, the outcome. It's related, but not the *process* itself.
4.  **election%1:09:00::** This is theologically-loaded - predestination. Completely irrelevant in this context.

Based on "presidential election", clearly, sense 1 is the most appropriate. The sentence is describing the process of a presidential vote to select a president and, by extension, the comparison to Congressional voting. I'm focusing on the voting mechanics. This sets the stage for analyzing the relationship between presidential vote percentages and congressional representation.


[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:
Tuesday's rout of a GOP congressional hopeful in a Mississippi district that hasn't backed a Democratic presidential candidate since Adlai Stevenson is another reminder that, at least at the federal level, political "ticket splitting "has been on the rise over the past half century. In only one presidential election year prior to 1948 did more than 20% of the nation's congressional districts choose a different party's candidate for the White House than for the House of Representatives. Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%. As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress. In every presidential election over the <t>past</t> half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party popular vote for president than it has of congressional seats or the popular vote for Congress. Prior to 1932, the pattern was nearly the opposite.

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}.

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing "Past" in Context**

Okay, so the target is "past," and, thankfully, the surface form matches the lemma. The context is "In every presidential election over the past half century..." Immediately, my mind jumps to the candidate senses.

Let's see... First up, we've got "earlier than the present time; no longer current." The examples "time past; his youth is past" immediately ring true in this context. It's about a time *before* now, specifically the last fifty years.

The second sense is a bit of a curveball: "of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office," with synonyms like "preceding" and "retiring." While the concept of a "past president" *could* be tangentially related, it doesn't fit the context of a *half century*. It's about a *period of time*.

Therefore, sense 1 is the clear winner. The phrase "past half century" unequivocally refers to a duration earlier than the present. It’s a straightforward disambiguation.