[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}.

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing the Target Word "Democratic"**

Okay, the target word here is "Democratic." The surrounding context mentions a presidential candidate and the GOP, so my expert intuition immediately leans towards the political party definition. Let's confirm that by quickly running through the senses:

*   The first sense is about the *principles* of democracy and social equality – interesting, but doesn't quite fit the context.
*   The second sense, specifically "belonging to or relating to the Democratic Party," is starting to look much more promising given the surrounding discussion about presidential candidates.
*   The third sense – "representing or appealing to the people at large" – is a broader sense, but still somewhat applicable in a political discussion. However, it feels too general here.

Given that the context is a presidential election and mentions the political party directly, I'm confident that sense number two is the accurate one here. This is clearly referring to a "Democratic presidential candidate" in the political sense. Case closed.


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: 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}.

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

finish_reason: stop

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

role: assistant

reasoning_content:
Okay, here's my interpretation of that thought process, from an expert's perspective:

**Deconstructing "Presidential" in Context**

Alright, the task is to pinpoint the correct sense of "presidential" when applied to "a Democratic presidential candidate." My expertise immediately kicks in; it's a matter of nuanced semantic analysis, a bread-and-butter exercise. I can see the potential ambiguity – it's crucial to disambiguate the word. There are, as I quickly recognize, at least two relevant senses. One relates directly to the *office* or *institution* of the presidency; think of things like "presidential directives," or "the presidential seal". The other speaks to a *qualitative* aspect, something *befitting* a president – like "presidential demeanor" or "a presidential bearing".

In this instance, the phrase "presidential candidate" immediately focuses my attention. It explicitly refers to someone vying for the *presidency* itself. The *role* is what's at play. Therefore, the first sense – the one directly pertaining to the office, the system, the *presidency* itself – is the most fitting. "Presidential candidate" is, at its core, "a candidate *for the presidency*." We're not discussing a candidate's perceived qualities; we're discussing the *position* they seek. So, the first sense is definitively the correct one here, and any other interpretation is, frankly, incorrect in this instance.

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: 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}.

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

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing the Semantic Landscape of "Candidate"**

Okay, so the prompt gives me "candidate" within the frame of "Democratic presidential candidate." My expert brain immediately starts sifting through the relevant senses. Let's see... I've got a couple of options here, according to the provided information. Sense 1: a politician vying for public office. Perfectly reasonable. It's the "campaigner" or "nominee" definition. Then there's Sense 2: someone being considered for something. Hmm, a "prospect," potentially.

However, the context is the key here. The phrase "Democratic presidential candidate" *directly* denotes someone actively *running* for office. This isn't a passive consideration; this person is actively pursuing the presidency. Therefore, I can confidently reject Sense 2. Sense 1, the definition of a politician actively running for office, is the *only* sense that truly fits. It's a textbook application of semantic disambiguation, and a clear-cut case of context winning the day. The "nominee" aspect is implied, as it's the candidate for the Democratic party, and so it's a politician running for public office.


[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}.

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

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

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing "Reminder" in Context**

Okay, so the word I'm working with here is "reminder". The surrounding text describes a "rout of a GOP congressional hopeful" – an event, in essence. My mental model is immediately considering the candidate senses I've got in mind: a message, an experience, or someone giving a warning.

Given that the context describes a concrete event ("the rout"), the idea of a *message* as a reminder seems less direct, more abstract. It could *be* a message, but it's not the primary sense I'm sensing here. Similarly, while a warning *could* be considered a type of reminder, it's not the most precise fit.

Therefore, my best bet, considering the contextual link to the rout, is sense 2: "an experience that causes you to remember something." The rout itself is the trigger, the *event*, that serves to jog someone's memory. It's the experience that sparks the recollection of the rising trend of ticket-splitting. This interpretation aligns best with the grammatical structure and the semantic nuances of the sentence. Makes perfect sense.


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

[User]
Target lemma: 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:
**Analyzing the Nuances of "Federal" in a Political Context**

Okay, so I'm honing in on the word "federal" here, specifically as it's used "at the federal level". This context immediately brings to mind the dynamics of political "ticket splitting" in the US – that disconnect we often see between presidential elections and individual congressional districts. It's really about contrasting the national government with the more local or state levels.

Now, let's look at these candidates. Candidate 1: "national; especially in reference to the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units". Bingo! That's the one. It *explicitly* addresses the US government and distinguishes it from the individual states. This fits like a glove, especially considering the specific political landscape (GOP, Democrats, Adlai Stevenson, White House, House of Representatives) that is being discussed.

Candidate 2, on the other hand, is a bit broader: "of or relating to the central government of a federation." While technically accurate, it’s less precise. Candidate 4 just describes the division of power, which isn't specific enough. Candidate 1 is the most specific.

Let's do a quick comparison of Candidate 1 vs. Candidate 2. With Candidate 1, we are dealing with an adjective satellite, linking "federal" to "national", specifically referring to the US government. "At the federal level" is, in this case, the national level as opposed to the state. Yup, Sense 1 is definitely the best match here. This is the precise meaning we're after.


[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}.

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

reasoning_content:
**Deconstructing "Level" in "Federal Level"**

Okay, the task is to pinpoint the correct sense of "level" in the phrase "at the federal level." My initial thought is to consider the hierarchical context – local, state, federal.

Analyzing the candidate senses from WordNet, it's clear there are a few contenders: a scale of intensity (unlikely here), a relative position within a graded group, a specific identifiable position in a continuum, and, interestingly, an abstract place with depth.

Since we are talking about *the federal level of government*, I'm leaning toward the notion of government being structured into tiers or strata. Sense 2 (grade, tier) or Sense 7 (abstract place having depth, like *a good actor communicates on several levels*) seem most plausible.

However, "level of government" typically aligns with the concept of a tier (Sense 2). Now, could Sense 7, the "abstract place," fit? Thinking through that, it's less direct. Let's look at "tier": a "relative position or degree of value in a graded group." Yes, government levels are, in fact, often visualized as tiers!

Considering "national level" or similar, "tier," "level," and "grade" seem to work well in hierarchical frameworks. I can even bring in sense 2 ("lumber of the highest grade") for contrast. Sense 3, a specific identifiable position, also came to mind.

"Federal level" in this context points to a specific stratum within the government.

Given the semantic possibilities, I'm now down to Sense 2 or 7. Actually, government levels are often referred to as tiers, and tiers are part of Sense 2. Sense 7 is possibly viable; "at the federal stratum/layer."

Wait, the best fit is definitely Sense 2, and that's the one I'll use.


[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 Nuances of "Political" in "Ticket Splitting"**

Okay, so the prompt is focusing on the word "political" in the context of "ticket splitting." My mind immediately jumps to the implication: voting for candidates from different parties. Clearly, we're dealing with the realm of...well, politics. That's the obvious link here.

Now, let's break down the candidates. Candidate 1 explicitly nails it: "involving or characteristic of politics or parties or politicians." That's the core of the matter, the very *raison d'etre* of ticket splitting – a reflection of party affiliation or a lack thereof. Candidate 2, which is "views about social relationships involving authority or power" is adjacent, but feels too broad; it is certainly *related* to politics, but it is not the act of ticket splitting. Candidate 3, "profession of governing," is also related, but feels even more distant.

Given that "ticket splitting" is an *act* directly tied to political parties and the election process, Candidate 1's definition is the most precise and relevant here. It hits the bullseye, directly addressing the connection between the voter's actions and the political landscape. The other options are too high level for this specific scenario.


[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}.

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

reasoning_content:
Okay, here's my interpretation of that thought process, tailored for an expert audience:

**Analyzing "Past" in Context**

Alright, the target is the word "past" within the phrase "over the past half century." My initial approach is to immediately access my semantic network for "past" and disambiguate its various senses. I'm seeing two readily available: the temporal sense (earlier than now) and the sense associated with former positions or roles (e.g., a "past president").

Given the surrounding phrase, "over the past half century," the correct interpretation becomes almost immediately apparent. The time frame "half century" functions as a temporal bound. The intent of the sentence is to measure something across that duration. Therefore, the relevant meaning of "past" has to be that of time earlier than the present. The notion of a "past" position or office is completely irrelevant here. Sense 1, the temporal definition, is the dominant and only logical choice. 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: 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}.

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

reasoning_content:
**Deconstructing "Presidential" in Context**

Alright, let's break this down. The target word is "presidential," and the context is crystal clear: "presidential election year." This immediately narrows our focus. We're not talking about decorum or bearing, the "befitting a president" sense. Instead, we're squarely in the realm of the election itself, the process of electing a president.

Therefore, the first sense of "presidential" is the only logical fit. It's the sense that relates *to* a president or the presidency in a functional, operational way. The election year is fundamentally about the presidency and the act of choosing a president. We can confidently discard any other interpretation. Sense 1 is the winner. This seems rather straightforward.


[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}.

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

Okay, so the prompt gives me "election" and "presidential election year." Immediately, I'm zeroing in on the political connotation. This is a presidential *election*, which means we're dealing with a process, a vote, where a winner is chosen for a specific political office – in this case, the presidency. I'm already mentally tagging that as Sense 1 from my lexicon – that specific type of vote.

Let's quickly run through the other possibilities, just to be sure. Sense 2, the *act* of selection? Possible, but less direct. Sense 3, the *status* of being elected? Still relevant, but again, secondary to the *process* in this context. And Sense 4... divine predestination? No. Not remotely applicable here. This isn't about theological determinism; it's about people casting ballots.

So, yeah, my interpretation is crystal clear. "Presidential election year" unambiguously points to Sense 1: the organized voting process to choose a president. Done.


[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:
**Analyzing the "Year" in "Presidential Election Year"**

Okay, so I need to nail down the meaning of "year" in "presidential election year." My initial thought is to distinguish between the two primary senses. Sense 1 is the straightforward, 365-day (or 366-day) period – the calendar year. Sense 2 describes a time period *within* a year dedicated to a specific activity, like a "school year."

In this context, it's pretty clear. "Presidential election year" refers to the entire period during which the election *occurs*. The example phrases used, such as "in only one presidential election year prior to 1948," really drive that home. I considered Sense 2 briefly, since it does mention a specific activity, but an election year isn't just a *part* of a year; it *is* a full calendar year.

Now, a quick sanity check: Does WordNet, that handy resource, offer anything that supports this decision? Ah, yes. "election year" is indeed a hyponym of year%1:28:01::. That confirms the first sense as the correct choice. So, the intended meaning of "year" here is definitely 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: 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:
**Analyzing the Nuances of "The Nation's Congressional Districts"**

Okay, so we're talking about the context of congressional districts and the parties they're choosing, in the U.S. Right. My first thought is to nail down the meaning of "nation" here, since it can have a couple of senses, and precision is key. Do we mean the *politically organized entity* itself – the state, the country, the land – or do we mean the *people* who inhabit that entity? We need to be specific.

"The nation's congressional districts"... That phrase immediately leans toward the *country* itself, the political entity (Sense 1). It's the districts *belonging to* the country. I'm thinking about phrases like "African nations" or "the state has elected..." - they reinforce that Sense 1 is the better fit. We're talking about geographically defined areas that are part of the larger political body.

But wait, we *could* use "nation" to refer to the people. Consider something like, "the news was announced to the nation." That's clearly the populace. So, we have to rule it out. In this specific phrase, however, the structure and the nature of the concept lean very heavily in favor of the country in a political sense, 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: 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}.

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

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

reasoning_content:
**Deconstructing the Nuance of "Choose" in Political Context**

Okay, so I'm thinking about how the word "choose" is used in this particular question about congressional districts and presidential elections. Specifically, it’s asking if a significant percentage of districts voted for different parties in the presidential and House races. The key is understanding what "choose" really *means* in this situation.

Right, so we've got a few ways to define this: choosing is like, *selecting* a candidate from a group. It’s about *picking* someone, and that's the most straightforward sense. The definition highlights 'electing' or 'picking out', which is exactly what happens in an election.

Now, another angle, definition two, is like preferring one option over others. I could use the word “choose” in the same way. Definition 3 is less relevant, since it's about making a judgement.

For the purpose of *this* question, Definition 1, where we are actively *selecting* a person, seems like the most accurate fit. It captures the essence of the electoral process: we're choosing a representative, a person, from a list of options. Using *select* or *pick out* in this context all works.

So, let's stick with candidate 1. Ah, yes, "choose a good husband for your daughter." That perfectly captures the essence here! Definition 1 nails it.


[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 Nuances of "Party" in Political Discourse**

Okay, here's the breakdown. The core concept I'm working with is the word "party," specifically when considering someone choosing a different one's candidate for the White House. This is squarely within a political context, judging by the surrounding words - "GOP," "congressional," "Democratic presidential candidate," and the ever-present "election year" backdrop.

Immediately, my mind jumps to Sense 1: the established "organization to gain political power." That's the perfect fit, isn't it? It aligns seamlessly with the sentence's implied meaning. We're talking about a *political* party and their nominated candidate, which is the most logical interpretation.


[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, let's break this down. The core of the prompt is about choosing a "candidate" from a different party for the White House. My immediate assessment is that we're talking about a political figure, a person actively seeking public office. The context – the White House, a different party – all but screams "presidential candidate."

Therefore, I've got two senses to consider, but it's pretty clear where we're going. Sense 1, the politician running for office – the "campaigner," the "nominee" – is the dominant and correct interpretation here. Sense 2, someone being *considered* for something, is much broader. While someone *could* be considered for the presidency, the context clearly indicates an active pursuit of the office. So, Sense 1 it is. 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: 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}.

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

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing the Term "Percentage"**

Okay, so the word is "percentage," and the sentence reads, "Now that percentage routinely equals a third and twice has been above 40%." Right off the bat, I know I need to figure out which sense of "percentage" is being used here. Let's break it down.

My immediate understanding is that we're talking about a *proportion* in relation to a whole; in other words, an amount *per hundred*. That's Sense 1. Now, let's consider the alternative – Sense 2, which involves assets, shares, or portions of something belonging to a person or group. The context, however, speaks of a third, and values over 40%, which are clearly proportions. So, Sense 1 is the clear winner here. We're dealing with a numerical representation of a proportion. 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: 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:
Okay, here's my interpretation of that thought process, tailored for an expert audience:

**Analyzing the Equation: "Percentage = a Third"**

Right, the text starts with "Now that percentage routinely equals a third..." and I immediately zero in on that crucial word: "equals." It's not just any word, it's the core of the relationship being described. My first thought is to dissect the different senses of "equals" to find the most fitting interpretation within this context.

We're dealing with a percentage equaling a fraction, and so the most immediate sense that leaps out is Sense 1: *“be identical or equivalent to."* The example cited, "One dollar equals 1,000 rubles these days!", highlights the direct equivalence of value. Clearly, a percentage "being identical to" a third, in this scenario, is the most logical interpretation. This percentage *is* a third. There's no implication of a qualitative comparison (Sense 2) or a process of making things equal (Sense 3); it's a straightforward statement of numerical identity. Therefore, this sense of the word is the correct 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: 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:
**Deconstructing the Implied "Knowing"**

Okay, so I'm looking at this phrase, "As we know, voters tend to favor Republicans..." and the word "know" is making me think. It implies a certain degree of shared understanding. My first instinct, given the context, is to parse this down to what "knowing" *actually* means. We're dealing with knowledge, belief, perhaps even something bordering on the realm of assumption.

The dictionary definitions are useful here. I see the distinction between simply *being aware of* a fact (sense 1) and *believing* something to be true (sense 3). Does "As we know" mean *we're all aware of* this trend, or *we all believe* it? In this case, "As we know" is talking about a general fact. That steers me towards sense 1, being *cognizant* of a fact. Consider my example, "I know the President lied...". I would be *aware* of the lie.

So, for the purposes of this analysis, I'm going with sense 1. It’s about possessing knowledge or information. This framing should give me a better foundation for moving forward.


[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 Nuances of "Tend"**

Okay, so the prompt uses "tend" in the context of voter behavior: "voters tend to favor Republicans more..." My focus, naturally, is on unpacking the specific meaning of "tend" within that sentence. It immediately strikes me as a word with layers.

I need to nail down the precise meaning. Let's see... what's the primary implication here? It screams of **Sense 1: having a tendency or disposition, being inclined to behave in a certain way.** This is about a *general inclination*, not a guaranteed outcome, but a likelihood. Synonyms like "be given," "lean," "incline," and "run" all reinforce this meaning. That's the core of the voter behavior observation.

I also have to consider other usages. Sense 2 - "have care of or look after" - doesn't fit the sentence's context. Similarly, Sense 3 - "manage or run" - is a nonstarter. Clearly, in this case, Sense 1 is the correct interpretation.


[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 "Favor" in the Political Context**

Okay, so the target word is "favor," specifically in this presidential vs. congressional race scenario. My initial instinct is to run through the possible candidate senses. We've got: "promote over another," "consider as the favorite," "treat gently or carefully," and "bestow a privilege upon." Right away, the context is about voters and their leanings, so senses like "treat gently" or "bestow a privilege" feel less relevant.

Let's dig a little deeper. The sentence states voters *tend* to *favor* Republicans in presidential races. "Prefer" seems to be the core idea here. That lines up perfectly with sense 1: "promote over another," or, simply, "prefer." The synonyms listed even include "prefer" and "favour," which is pretty direct confirmation.

I'm thinking about the phrase "he favors his second daughter" as a parallel. It clearly indicates a preference, a promotion of one over another. In our case, the voter behavior implies a *preference* for Republicans *over* Democrats in presidential contests. So, yes, Sense Index 1 is the most accurate fit here. The meaning in this context means "to prefer."


[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}.

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

Okay, so the word I'm dealing with is "Republicans," and the lemmatized form is "republican." The context, which focuses on political ticket splitting, makes it immediately clear that we're talking about the GOP – the Republican Party here in the United States. The phrase "voters tend to favor Republicans more in races for president than in those for Congress" solidifies this.

Now, let's look at the candidate senses. We have: a member of the Republican Party, an advocate of a republic, and a tributary of the Kansas River. Given the context, the first sense, **republican%1:18:01:: a member of the Republican Party**, is the only one that makes any sense. The other two are completely irrelevant.

Therefore, the sense index is undoubtedly 1. This analysis is straightforward; the political context eliminates any ambiguity.


[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 Term "Race" in a Political Context**

Okay, let's break this down. We're talking about political elections, specifically "races for president" and "races for Congress." The key word here is "race," and my primary task is to identify the intended meaning. Clearly, a contest of speed or biological distinctions is not relevant here. My initial thought is that the first sense, "any competition," fits seamlessly. "The race for the presidency" is the perfect example; it's a competition to see who will be the next president. The other senses regarding genetic stock, biological subspecies, airflow, or water canals are completely off-track within this political framework. Therefore, sense 1 is the clear and only viable interpretation.


[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:
**Deconstructing "President" in the Political Arena**

Okay, so the target word is "president," and we're looking at it within the framework of U.S. presidential races, along with Congress, Republicans, and Democrats. Right away, my initial thought is, "Are we talking about the *office* of the President or the *person* holding that office?" It's a critical distinction to nail down. Let me see, "races for president"... that *usually* points to the office itself. "A President is elected every four years" – definitely the office, sense 6. But the context is "races for president," so the nuance could be the person, or the office.

Let's check WordNet. "Elect someone president" frequently means the *office*. Okay, so back to the senses, let's look again: sense 6 is "the office of the United States head of state" and includes "a President is elected every four years." Sense 2 is "the person who holds the office..." Now, this phrase "capture a greater percentage of the major-party popular vote for president" – that *implies* the office. It's a contest for the position, right?

So, I'm leaning toward either sense 6 or 2, and after reviewing that "president%1:04:04::" means the office (it is a noun.act) and %1:18 is noun.person. But then, it occurs to me that the phrase "for president" could map to either, the office or the person. Now, "a President is elected every four years" is sense 6, confirming my sense of the office again.

Okay, let's step back. While in WordNet "for president" could map to either, in context of "races for president", I'm leaning to sense 6, which is the office or title. But I keep reconsidering this, given the context. However, "popular vote for president" *usually* refers to the office. So, back to sense 6. Let's make sure, as it's the office. Yes, "run for president" and "elected president" fit nicely with sense 6, the title. Therefore, I'll select sense 6 and commit to the office.


[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:
**Deconstructing "Presidential" in Context**

Okay, so the prompt gives me "presidential," and the key is "In every presidential election over the past half century..." My brain immediately starts dissecting the possible meanings. We've got two main senses, right? There's the direct link *to* the president or presidency – think "presidential election." That's the obvious one. And then there's the more abstract sense of *befitting* a president, like someone "looking presidential."

Given the surrounding text, and particularly the phrase "presidential election," it's clear the author is using the word to refer to the *election itself* and therefore the office of president. The context strongly dictates that we're dealing with sense number one: the meaning directly concerning the presidency and its associated processes. Case closed! It's a straightforward disambiguation.


[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 Concept of "Election" in Context**

Okay, so the prompt gives me "election," and the surrounding words are "In every presidential election over the past half century..." Immediately, I'm already zeroing in on Sense 1: a vote to select the winner of a position or political office. That's the most straightforward, most logical interpretation given the phrase "presidential election." The context practically screams political process, voting, and the ultimate outcome of choosing a president. I quickly run through the other senses, just to be thorough.

Sense 2, "the act of selecting someone or something," is related, but too general. While an election *is* an act of selection, the context focuses on the formal, structured voting process.

Sense 3, "the status or fact of being elected," is the result, not the *process*. It's the *outcome* of the election, not the election itself.

And finally, Sense 4, "predestination (divine mercy)," that's obviously a complete mismatch. It's irrelevant in the context of a presidential election. So, yeah, I'm sticking with Sense 1. It's the clear winner 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: 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:
**Deconstructing "Past" in Context**

Alright, let's break this down. The target is "past," specifically within the phrase "over the past half century." My initial instinct is to identify the possible meanings – what are we really talking about? First, there's the straightforward temporal sense: something that occurred *before* now, something that's gone. Then, we have the secondary meaning of someone who *used* to hold a position or office.

Given the context of "over the past half century," it’s immediately obvious that we're talking about *time*. The "past" here refers exclusively to Sense 1: a duration that precedes the present. It's the period of time leading up to this point, not a former office holder. Case closed. Moving on...


[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 presidential election over the past half century, except for the Goldwater <t>presidential</t> 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:
Here's my analysis of the term "presidential" in the context of "Goldwater presidential candidacy."

**Analyzing "Presidential" in Context**

Alright, let's break this down. The target word is "presidential," and the context is Goldwater's *presidential* candidacy. I need to figure out which sense of "presidential" is at play here. The two options I've identified are:

1.  "Relating to a president or presidency"
2.  "Befitting a president" - this is the "looks presidential," demeanor type of meaning.

Now, considering "presidential candidacy," the meaning is clearly about running *for the office* of president. It's about being a candidate *for* the presidency. Therefore, the first sense – "relating to a president or presidency" – is the perfect fit. It's a straightforward reference to the office itself. Sense number two, the more subjective "befitting" definition, is irrelevant here. We're not discussing appearances or demeanor, but the very act of running for the highest office in the land. This is quite clear-cut.


[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 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 past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater <t>percentage</t> 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=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}.

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

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

Okay, so the target word is "percentage," and the context is about the GOP's popular vote share in presidential elections. My initial instinct is to identify the relevant sense of the word. I quickly recognize that "percentage" can refer to a couple of distinct ideas. First, it's about a proportion or ratio, specifically as a value out of a hundred. Second, it can relate to assets or contributions, ownership, like a stake in something.

Given the context of "popular vote," the first sense – the proportional ratio – is clearly the right one. It's not about ownership or contributions here. The sentence is obviously discussing the proportion of the total popular vote the GOP has secured. Therefore, my assessment is that Sense 1, the ratio or proportion, is the accurate interpretation in this particular case.


[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: major
Target surface form: major
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 past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the <t>major</t> - 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=major%3:00:06:: | definition=of greater importance or stature or rank | examples=a major artist; a major role
2. sense_key=major%3:00:02:: | definition=greater in scope or effect | examples=a major contribution; a major improvement
3. sense_key=major%3:00:01:: | definition=greater in number or size or amount | examples=a major portion (a majority) of the population; Ursa Major
4. sense_key=major%3:00:05:: | definition=of the field of academic study in which one concentrates or specializes | examples=his major field was mathematics
5. sense_key=major%3:00:04:: | definition=of a scale or mode | examples=major scales; the key of D major
6. sense_key=major%3:00:07:: | definition=of greater seriousness or danger | examples=a major earthquake; a major hurricane
7. sense_key=major%3:00:03:: | definition=of full legal age
8. sense_key=major%5:00:00:senior:00 | definition=of the elder of two boys with the same family name | examples=Jones major

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 "Major" in Political Context**

Okay, the target is "major" in "major party popular vote," and we're dealing with the political landscape, specifically US parties. My initial thought is that "major" here refers to the two big players, Democrats and Republicans. Now, let's break down the potential senses of "major" to nail down the right interpretation.

I've got three options: something being "of greater importance or stature or rank," "greater in scope or effect," or "greater in number or size or amount." I immediately lean towards the first one - a "major party" implies one of significance, not necessarily one with a broader reach of policies or even more policy effect, more about political weight.

Hmm, maybe there's a specific political definition of "major party" somewhere? Doesn't seem to be, but that first sense ("of greater importance...") or the third ("greater in number...") are the usual suspects. Thinking it over, it's really the prominence and rank that defines a "major party." It's not just size, it's *importance*.

Let me zero in on sense 1 again: "of greater importance or stature or rank." Yep, that's it. A "major party" is one that holds a position of greater importance within the political system. So, it's that first sense I'm going with.


[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 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 past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - <t>party</t> 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=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 Meaning of "Party" in Political Context**

Okay, so the target word is "party," specifically in the phrase "major - party popular vote." Given the surrounding context – politics, candidates, the GOP, Republicans, Democrats – it's immediately obvious to me that we're dealing with the political sphere. The other senses just wouldn't make sense here.

Let's quickly run through the possibilities just to confirm: Sense 1, an organization aiming for political power, is what I'm expecting. Then there are other options like a group of people for pleasure, a band of people, a social event, or a legal proceeding person. The social gathering, band, or legal context are obviously not a fit. Therefore, I can confidently rule out senses 2, 3, 4, and 5. Sense 1, the political organization definition, is unequivocally the correct interpretation in this instance. We're talking about a political party. Done.


[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: popular
Target surface form: popular
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 past half century, except for the Goldwater presidential candidacy, the GOP has captured a greater percentage of the major - party <t>popular</t> 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=popular%3:00:00:: | definition=regarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public | examples=a popular tourist attraction; a popular girl
2. sense_key=popular%5:00:00:democratic:00 | definition=carried on by or for the people (or citizens) at large | examples=the popular vote; popular representation
3. sense_key=popular%5:00:01:common:01 | definition=representing or appealing to or adapted for the benefit of the people at large | synonyms=democratic | examples=democratic art forms; a democratic or popular movement
4. sense_key=popular%5:00:00:nonclassical:00 | definition=(of music or art) new and of general appeal (especially among young people) | synonyms=pop

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 Meaning of "Popular" in "Popular Vote"**

Okay, so I need to nail down the meaning of "popular" here, specifically within the phrase "popular vote." Let's see... I've got a few candidates for the sense. There's the general "regarded with great favor" meaning, which is plausible, but maybe too broad. Then there's the one that directly mentions "carried on by or for the people" and, crucially, includes "the popular vote" as an example! Perfect. That seems spot on. There are also a couple of other options: one about representing or appealing to the people, and another specific to art and music. But those don't quite fit the context. So, yeah, sense 2 is definitely the winner. That's the one.