[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: politician
Target surface form: politicians
Context:
Parents should be involved with their children's education at home, not in school. They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local <t>politicians</t> or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=politician%1:18:01:: | definition=a leader engaged in civil administration
2. sense_key=politician%1:18:00:: | definition=a person active in party politics | synonyms=politico, pol, political leader
3. sense_key=politician%1:18:02:: | definition=a schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization in sly or underhanded ways

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 "Politicians" in Context**

Alright, let's break this down. The target word is "politicians," and we need to determine the most fitting sense within the provided context: "Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians."

First, I consider the potential senses drawn from WordNet: Sense 1, "a leader engaged in civil administration," Sense 2, "a person active in party politics," and Sense 3, "a schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization." Sense 3 seems metaphorical and less relevant here. The question is, are we dealing with "civil administration" (Sense 1) or "party politics" (Sense 2)?

The context describes these figures as "ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic." "Would-be politicians" suggests an aspiration to a political career or activity. It strikes me that "locally elected school boards" are governmental bodies and this description strongly suggests involvement in electoral processes and political careers. I'm inclined to lean toward the sense of active party politics.

Let's dig deeper into WordNet. Sense 2 aligns with a "person active in party politics," which includes synonyms like "politico" and "pol." This feels relevant given the negative connotations in the surrounding text – corruption and demagoguery aren't necessarily hallmarks of civil administrators, but can be associated with party politics. "Office seeker" is a hyponym of Sense 2! That seals it.

I'm checking the common usage; Sense 2 seems to be more common in the SemCor corpus. We're talking about "local politicians" who are preying on the school boards. Is this about governing, or power grabbing? I'm thinking the latter.

WordNet's hierarchy clarifies it for me: Sense 1 is a leader in civil administration (like a governor or a minister), while Sense 2 is a "politico, pol." The context really screams "politico, pol" given the derogatory tone.

Considering the specific phrase "would-be politicians," this clearly means people who are seeking office or aspiring to a political career or power. I'm leaning heavily towards "a person active in party politics" (Sense 2) because it fits the ambitious and possibly corrupt nature implied in the phrase.

Checking SemCor, the definition of the word 'politician' in Sense 2 is a better fit as "party politics" has the better connotation here. The SemCor instances and synonyms confirm this. Furthermore, in American English, "local politicians" often refers to local "pols" or those involved in the ins and outs of local political power, aligning closely with Sense 2.

Merriam-Webster reinforces this analysis. MW defines politicians as someone engaged in government. Sense 2(b) explicitly describes people "primarily interested in political office for selfish or other narrow usually short-sighted reasons." This really clinches it: sense 2, as defined by WordNet ("politician, politico, pol, political leader - a person active in party politics"), is the correct one.


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: politician
Target surface form: politicians
Context:
Parents should be involved with their children's education at home, not in school. They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be <t>politicians</t>. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=politician%1:18:01:: | definition=a leader engaged in civil administration
2. sense_key=politician%1:18:00:: | definition=a person active in party politics | synonyms=politico, pol, political leader
3. sense_key=politician%1:18:02:: | definition=a schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization in sly or underhanded ways

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

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

finish_reason: stop

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

role: assistant

reasoning_content:
**My Reasoning Process: Disambiguating "Politician"**

Okay, so I need to figure out the right sense of "politician" here. The context is school boards being preyed upon by "ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians." My initial thought is to consider the possible senses: a leader in civil administration, someone active in party politics, or a schemer.

WordNet gives me three options. I quickly look up the definitions to refresh my memory, and then I focus on the relevant phrase "local politicians or would-be politicians." Given the context of school boards, which are political bodies, the distinction between "party politics" and "civil administration" becomes crucial. Are these folks primarily *administrators* or are they playing the political game? I have to figure out if it's Sense 1 or Sense 2. Sense 3 doesn't really fit, that's more internal office politics.

I delve back into the WordNet definitions and synonyms. I see that "politician%1:18:00::" (sense 2 in my list) is defined as "a person active in party politics," and it includes synonyms like "politico" and "pol." Those synonyms are pretty telling. They bring a certain... connotation, a particular flavor to the phrase.

The phrase "would-be politicians" is the biggest clue, I see. Someone *aspiring* to political office definitely fits the "party politics" definition, right?

I start thinking about the phrase: "ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic." Then I think about the connotations of "politico" and "pol." That really hits the nail on the head. That is *exactly* the kind of politician we are talking about here.

So, I revisit WordNet definitions and I'm sure of the context. WordNet includes this distinction: Sense 2, "a person active in party politics" (politico, pol, political leader, politician). This definitely lines up. And a person active in party politics is distinct from a civil servant/leader engaged in civil administration.

I look again at the initial context, the connotations. It makes sense, now.

So, it's sense_key=politician%1:18:00::, which is the definition: "a person active in party politics." The list confirms it and I make my final decision. This is it.

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: process
Target surface form: process
Context:
They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the <t>process</t> of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=process%1:04:00:: | definition=a particular course of action intended to achieve a result | synonyms=procedure | examples=the procedure of obtaining a driver's license; it was a process of trial and error
2. sense_key=process%1:09:00:: | definition=(psychology) the performance of some composite cognitive activity; an operation that affects mental contents | synonyms=cognitive process, mental process, operation, cognitive operation | examples=the process of thinking; the cognitive operation of remembering
3. sense_key=process%1:10:00:: | definition=a writ issued by authority of law; usually compels the defendant's attendance in a civil suit; failure to appear results in a default judgment against the defendant | synonyms=summons
4. sense_key=process%1:09:01:: | definition=a mental process that you are not directly aware of | synonyms=unconscious process | examples=the process of denial
5. sense_key=process%1:08:00:: | definition=a natural prolongation or projection from a part of an organism either animal or plant | synonyms=outgrowth, appendage | examples=a bony process
6. sense_key=process%1:03:00:: | definition=a sustained phenomenon or one marked by gradual changes through a series of states | synonyms=physical process | examples=events now in process; the process of calcification begins later for boys than for girls

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 Nuances of "Process"**

Okay, so we're looking at "process" in the context of New York's move away from this old school governance system. My initial instinct is to jump to a procedural definition – Sense 1, a specific course of action to achieve a goal. But let's be thorough, given the potential for ambiguity in language.

I'm quickly evaluating the candidate senses: Sense 1 (procedure), Sense 2 (cognitive process), Sense 3 (summons – irrelevant), Sense 4 (unconscious process), Sense 5 (outgrowth), and Sense 6 (sustained phenomenon/physical process). Sense 1 and 6 are the main contenders.

Sense 1's definition, "a particular course of action intended to achieve a result," is intriguing, and it's synonymous with "procedure." The examples, like "obtaining a driver's license," highlight the goal-oriented nature. Sense 6, on the other hand, deals with gradual changes or sustained phenomena. The "in process" phrase suggests this as a possibility, but the examples feel different here.

The key question is whether "in the process of trying to disengage" leans more towards "course of action" or "sustained phenomenon". My mind keeps circling back to this phrase, parsing its components. Is the act of disengaging a deliberate procedure, or an ongoing event?

The phrase "trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment..." screams "course of action." It's an active attempt, not just a passive phenomenon. It's a goal-directed activity. The synonym "procedure" is also helpful here, as in the "procedure of obtaining a driver's license" - there's a specific plan of action to be followed to reach an end result.

I need to confirm WordNet's categories. Yes! Sense 1 is a noun.act, a particular course of action. Sense 6 is a noun.process/physical process - a sustained phenomenon!

So, the intentional "trying to disengage" definitively leans towards a planned course of action: a course of action intended to achieve a result. Disengaging is a deliberate human act or institutional action, not some unfolding physical phenomenon. The hypernym of Sense 6, "physical phenomenon," seals the deal.

Therefore, Sense 1 (noun.act), with its associated key 1:04:00, is the correct interpretation. "Process," in this instance, is best understood as a "particular course of action intended to achieve a result." Thus, the sense_index is 1.


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

[User]
Target lemma: try
Target surface form: trying
Context:
They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of <t>trying</t> to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=try%2:41:00:: | definition=make an effort or attempt | synonyms=seek, attempt, essay, assay | examples=He tried to shake off his fears; The infant had essayed a few wobbly steps
2. sense_key=try%2:41:01:: | definition=put to the test, as for its quality, or give experimental use to | synonyms=test, prove, try out, examine, essay | examples=This approach has been tried with good results; Test this recipe
3. sense_key=try%2:41:06:: | definition=put on trial or hear a case and sit as the judge at the trial of | synonyms=judge, adjudicate | examples=The football star was tried for the murder of his wife; The judge tried both father and son in separate trials
4. sense_key=try%2:34:00:: | definition=take a sample of | synonyms=sample, try out, taste | examples=Try these new crackers; Sample the regional dishes
5. sense_key=try%2:41:05:: | definition=examine or hear (evidence or a case) by judicial process | synonyms=hear | examples=The jury had heard all the evidence; The case will be tried in California
6. sense_key=try%2:37:01:: | definition=give pain or trouble to | examples=I've been sorely tried by these students
7. sense_key=try%2:37:00:: | definition=test the limits of | synonyms=strain, stress | examples=You are trying my patience!
8. sense_key=try%2:30:00:: | definition=melt (fat or lard) in order to separate out impurities | synonyms=render | examples=try the yak butter; render fat in a casserole
9. sense_key=try%2:29:00:: | definition=put on a garment in order to see whether it fits and looks nice | synonyms=try on | examples=Try on this sweater to see how it looks

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

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

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing the Verb "Trying" in Context**

Okay, so the target word is "trying," which is clearly a form of the lemma "try." The sentence provides the context: "New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment..." My initial thought is that "trying to disengage itself" likely implies an *effort* or an *attempt* is being made.

Now, let's look at the candidate senses. I'm focusing on the sense keys and definitions, looking for the best fit:

1.  *try%2:41:00:: | definition=make an effort or attempt* This definitely aligns with my initial impression. The definition itself, "make an effort or attempt," feels spot-on. The examples, such as "He tried to shake off his fears," further solidify this understanding.
2.  *try%2:41:01:: | definition=put to the test, as for its quality, or give experimental use to...* This doesn't seem relevant. New York isn't "testing" disengagement.
3.  *try%2:41:06:: | definition=put on trial or hear a case...* Clearly, this is not the right meaning.
4.  *try%2:34:00:: | definition=take a sample of...* This is a complete mismatch.
5.  *try%2:41:05:: | definition=examine or hear (evidence or a case)...* Again, not relevant.
6.  *try%2:37:01:: | definition=give pain or trouble to...* This is obviously incorrect.
7.  *try%2:37:00:: | definition=test the limits of...* While this might fit marginally in a broader sense of testing the limits of commitment, the phrase lacks the nuance of an intentional action.
8.  *try%2:30:00:: | definition=melt (fat or lard)...* Completely irrelevant.
9.  *try%2:29:00:: | definition=put on a garment...* This is clearly not the correct sense.

Therefore, the first sense (*try%2:41:00:: | definition=make an effort or attempt*) is the only one that truly makes sense in this context. It's a straightforward determination based on the definition and the specific phrase used.


[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: system
Target surface form: system
Context:
They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this <t>system</t> of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=system%1:06:00:: | definition=instrumentality that combines interrelated interacting artifacts designed to work as a coherent entity | examples=he bought a new stereo system; the system consists of a motor and a small computer
2. sense_key=system%1:14:00:: | definition=a group of independent but interrelated elements comprising a unified whole | synonyms=scheme | examples=a vast system of production and distribution and consumption keep the country going
3. sense_key=system%1:27:00:: | definition=(physical chemistry) a sample of matter in which substances in different phases are in equilibrium | examples=in a static system oil cannot be replaced by water on a surface; a system generating hydrogen peroxide
4. sense_key=system%1:09:00:: | definition=a complex of methods or rules governing behavior | synonyms=system of rules | examples=they have to operate under a system they oppose; that language has a complex system for indicating gender
5. sense_key=system%1:09:02:: | definition=an organized structure for arranging or classifying | synonyms=arrangement, organization, organisation | examples=he changed the arrangement of the topics; the facts were familiar but it was in the organization of them that he was original
6. sense_key=system%1:08:00:: | definition=a group of physiologically or anatomically related organs or parts | examples=the body has a system of organs for digestion
7. sense_key=system%1:09:01:: | definition=a procedure or process for obtaining an objective | examples=they had to devise a system that did not depend on cooperation
8. sense_key=system%1:08:01:: | definition=the living body considered as made up of interdependent components forming a unified whole | examples=exercise helped him get the alcohol out of his system
9. sense_key=system%1:07:00:: | definition=an ordered manner; orderliness by virtue of being methodical and well organized | synonyms=organization, organisation | examples=his compulsive organization was not an endearing quality; we can't do it unless we establish some system around here

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": 4}
```

content:
```json
{"sense_index": 4}
```

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing "System" in the Context of School Governance**

Alright, let's break this down. The target word is "system" in the phrase "this system of school governance." I'm immediately drawn to a few senses, particularly sense 4, "a complex of methods or rules governing behavior," and sense 2, "a group of independent but interrelated elements comprising a unified whole." I have to consider the nuances here, and how they relate to the description provided.

My initial instinct is to zero in on sense 4. The definition aligns perfectly: governance is, at its core, about regulating operations and behavior. I was thinking of "a complex of methods or rules governing behavior" -> "system of school governance." It's literally about governing. The example of "operating under a system they oppose" is a classic example of political or governance system. It's a method of governance! That's a strong fit. I have to see, though, if another sense fits better.

I'm also considering sense 2, particularly when I look at the phrase as a whole. However, after exploring the hyponyms of sense 2, such as coordinate system and ecosystem, it's clear this is a poor fit.

Then, there's sense 7, "a procedure or process for obtaining an objective," and sense 5, "an organized structure for arranging or classifying." Sense 7 has hypernyms such as procedure, process, and hyponyms like statistical method and software system. This does not seem to fit the description. Sense 5 similarly seems to be a poor fit.

Back to sense 4. It's a "system of rules" governing behavior. This feels right on the money. The core concept here, "governance," is fundamentally about regulating conduct and decision-making within a specific domain. The provided example of "operating under a system they oppose" directly mirrors the concept: it's a political system in terms of rules and methods. School governance, as the phrase is used, definitely constitutes a set of such rules and methods.

So, after a thorough review of the various senses and their associated hyponyms and hypernyms, the best fit is overwhelmingly sense 4: "a complex of methods or rules governing behavior." This perfectly captures the meaning of "system of school governance" in this context.


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

[User]
Target lemma: school
Target surface form: school
Context:
They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of <t>school</t> governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=school%1:14:00:: | definition=an educational institution | examples=the school was founded in 1900
2. sense_key=school%1:06:00:: | definition=a building where young people receive education | synonyms=schoolhouse | examples=the school was built in 1932; he walked to school every morning
3. sense_key=school%1:09:00:: | definition=the process of being formally educated at a school | synonyms=schooling | examples=what will you do when you finish school?
4. sense_key=school%1:14:02:: | definition=a body of creative artists or writers or thinkers linked by a similar style or by similar teachers | examples=the Venetian school of painting
5. sense_key=school%1:28:00:: | definition=the period of instruction in a school; the time period when school is in session | synonyms=schooltime, school day | examples=stay after school; he didn't miss a single day of school
6. sense_key=school%1:14:03:: | definition=an educational institution's faculty and students | examples=the school keeps parents informed; the whole school turned out for the game
7. sense_key=school%1:14:01:: | definition=a large group of fish | synonyms=shoal | examples=a school of small glittering fish swam by

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 Context of "School"**

Okay, the target word here is "school," and it's used within the phrase "...commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago..." My immediate focus is understanding how "school" functions in the context of "governance."

Let's quickly run through the senses and eliminate the implausible ones. Sense 2, "a building where young people receive education," is definitely out; it's the *object* of governance, not the *subject*. Sense 3, "the process of being formally educated," isn't right either. Governance applies to the institution, not the process. Sense 4, referring to a "body of creative artists," and Sense 7, a "large group of fish" are obviously irrelevant. Sense 5, "the period of instruction," and Sense 6, "an educational institution's faculty and students" aren't a good fit, either. That leaves us with Sense 1, which defines "school" as "an educational institution."

Now, does "school governance" mean governance of the educational institutions? Yes, it does. School boards govern schools. It's the only one that makes logical sense within the "system of school governance" phrase. Therefore, sense_key=school%1:14:00::, the "educational institution" sense, is the correct interpretation here.


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

[User]
Target lemma: governance
Target surface form: governance
Context:
They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school <t>governance</t>, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=governance%1:14:00:: | definition=the persons (or committees or departments etc.) who make up a body for the purpose of administering something | synonyms=administration, governing body, establishment, brass, organization, organisation | examples=he claims that the present administration is corrupt; the governance of an association is responsible to its members
2. sense_key=governance%1:04:00:: | definition=the act of governing; exercising authority | synonyms=government, governing, government activity, administration | examples=regulations for the governing of state prisons; he had considerable experience of government

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

Okay, the target word is "governance," and the sentence describes an entity trying to move away from a "system of school governance" while others are adopting it. My first thought is to consider the two main senses of "governance": is it the *people* doing the governing (governing body, sense 1) or the *act* of governing itself (government, administration, sense 2)?

The phrase "system of school governance" is key. Does it refer to the *structure* of the school board (sense 1), or the *method* by which schools are managed (sense 2)? Considering "Locally elected school boards" and "community involvement", it looks like they are talking about how schools are being governed.

Therefore, "system of school governance" more likely refers to the "system of governing" or the method of governing. Sense 2 - "the act of governing; exercising authority" - seems like the better fit. The synonyms here, like "government," "administration," and "governing," are consistent with that interpretation.

Just to be sure, I check sense 1 again. The synonyms for sense 1 are more focused on the *people* doing the governing, "administration", "governing body", etc.

So, in this specific context, "governance" is clearly the activity/process of governing (sense 2). It's the method, the administration of schools, that's being discussed, not just the governing bodies themselves.


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

[User]
Target lemma: other
Target surface form: other
Context:
They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and <t>other</t> cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better.

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

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

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

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

reasoning_content:
**My Analysis of "Other" in Context**

Okay, so the word I need to nail down is "other" in the sentence "...even as Chicago and <t>other</t> cities are moving to institute it." Let's break down the potential senses. I've got a few options here. Sense 1, "not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied," immediately jumps out. The definition, along with the example of "the construction of highways and other public works," feels spot-on. It clearly implies that there are cities *besides* Chicago, cities implied but not explicitly mentioned, that are also doing the same thing.

I'll quickly glance at the other options just to confirm. Sense 2, related to the recently past, and Sense 3, pertaining to the distant past, feel completely off the mark in this context. Sense 4, describing something as unusual or strange, also doesn't fit the sentence's meaning at all.

Yep, Sense 1 it is. The usage here is the standard "different from those already specified" interpretation. The example provided in the sense definition really solidifies the match. So, the sense index is definitely 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: city
Target surface form: cities
Context:
They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other <t>cities</t> are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=city%1:15:00:: | definition=a large and densely populated urban area; may include several independent administrative districts | synonyms=metropolis, urban center | examples=Ancient Troy was a great city
2. sense_key=city%1:15:01:: | definition=an incorporated administrative district established by state charter | examples=the city raised the tax rate
3. sense_key=city%1:14:00:: | definition=people living in a large densely populated municipality | synonyms=metropolis | examples=the city voted for Republicans in 1994

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:
**WSD Analysis of "cities"**

Okay, the task is clear: disambiguate "cities" in this sentence. The goal is to figure out which of the three senses of "city" is being used here: a large urban area (sense 1), an administrative district (sense 2), or the people living in a municipality (sense 3). Let's dive in.

The context is "New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself... even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it." Hmm, "institute" a system of school governance... that's a key action. Who "institutes"?  An administrative body, that's what comes to mind, a governing body. Sense 2, "an incorporated administrative district established by state charter," seems like a strong contender, illustrated by the example, "the city raised the tax rate."

Let's do a quick comparison. Sense 2 is about administrative function. Sense 3, "people living in a large densely populated municipality," implies a collective of people. I'm leaning toward Sense 2. "The city raised the tax rate" is a perfect parallel. It is the administrative entity that acts, not the people in it. But, wait, is there an overlap?

To be sure, I'll go back to the WordNet entry. Yep, the example for sense 2, "the city raised the tax rate," reinforces the administrative district concept.

Now, let's look back at the sentence. "Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it." The phrase is clear, they are *acting* as governments, moving to implement something. And that's what makes the most sense. "Cities" as geographical entities is less likely here. We are clearly talking about governance, and that's an administrative action.

Also, the previous sentence, "in our larger cities," seems to set the stage for an urban area in an administrative role. "New York is disengaging... Chicago and other cities are moving to institute."

So, even though "cities" can often refer to urban areas (sense 1), the context is about governance. Sense 2, "an incorporated administrative district established by state charter," aligns perfectly. It's the governing function of the city that is relevant here, not the geographical area or the people. The evidence is solid: "moving to institute" directly mirrors actions like "raising the tax rate." Sense 2 is the best fit.


[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: institute
Target surface form: institute
Context:
They should see to it that their kids do not play truant; they should make certain that the children spend enough time doing homework; they should scrutinize the report card. If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to <t>institute</t> it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=institute%2:36:01:: | definition=set up or lay the groundwork for | synonyms=establish, found, plant, constitute | examples=establish a new department
2. sense_key=institute%2:36:00:: | definition=advance or set forth in court; , | synonyms=bring | examples=bring charges; institute proceedings

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 word "institute" in that context:

**Analyzing the Verb "Institute"**

Okay, the target word is "institute," used as a verb. Let's see... the sentence is about school governance: "New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it."

First, I need to consider potential senses. I have two strong contenders in my mental lexicon. There's the more common meaning related to setting something up or establishing something, you know, "establish a new department." Then there's the legal connotation, like "bring charges" or "institute proceedings." I can already tell where this is going...

Now, let's go back to the context. Chicago and others are trying to "institute" *a system of school governance*. That points strongly towards the first sense – setting up, establishing, laying the groundwork for something. The whole concept of "governance" fits the "establishing" definition more than "bringing charges" or something legal. It's about implementing a new system, not pursuing a legal action. So, sense 1 is 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: most
Target surface form: most
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In <t>most</t> states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=most%3:00:02:: | definition=(superlative of `many' used with count nouns and often preceded by `the') quantifier meaning the greatest in number | examples=who has the most apples?; most people like eggs
2. sense_key=most%3:00:01:: | definition=the superlative of `much' that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by `the'; a quantifier meaning the greatest in amount or extent or degree | examples=made the most money he could; what attracts the most attention?

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 Usage of "Most"**

Okay, the target word is "most" within the phrase "In most states...". My initial thought is to quickly consider the potential senses. I'm immediately drawn to two possibilities: the superlative of "many" and the superlative of "much". I recall my knowledge of quantifiers and their usage.

My intuition tells me that the noun following "most," which is "states," is plural and countable. "States" represents discrete units, not a continuous mass. Therefore, I'm leaning heavily toward sense 1, the superlative of "many," implying "the greatest in number." It should be the quantifier meaning the greatest in number.

To be absolutely certain, I'll quickly check the definitions.

*   Sense 1, with examples like "who has the most apples?", perfectly matches the context. We are talking about the majority or greatest *number* of states.
*   Sense 2, the superlative of "much," refers to amount or extent, which isn't applicable here. "Made the most money" is an example of the use of "much" but it does not apply here.

So, the conclusion is clear. Sense 1 is the correct one. The word "most" in this context refers to the greatest number of states. I have a solid understanding of how it's being used.


[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: expenditure
Target surface form: expenditures
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing <t>expenditures</t> on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=expenditure%1:21:00:: | definition=money paid out; an amount spent | synonyms=outgo, spending, outlay
2. sense_key=expenditure%1:04:00:: | definition=the act of spending money for goods or services | synonyms=expending
3. sense_key=expenditure%1:04:01:: | definition=the act of consuming something | synonyms=consumption, using up

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 "Expenditures"**

Okay, let's break this down. The target word here is "expenditures," and the context is about education spending, which immediately triggers the need for precision. We need to figure out which "expenditures" we are dealing with. My immediate thought is that it's the financial sense of the word.

First, I consider a few possibilities, but am quickly leaning towards the most obvious interpretation, "money paid out; an amount spent." It is plural, suggesting a count, and the context clearly is financial. The second option is the "act of spending money," and the third, the "act of consuming something". But these don't seem like the best fits.

"Increasing expenditures on education"... is this the *act* of spending, or the *amount* spent? The plural form "expenditures" leans towards distinct outlays, implying *amounts*. Then there's the phrase "the influence of money is minimal". Ah! This supports my initial hunch – it's the *amount* of money. So, in the financial realm, plural "expenditures" typically is about amounts.

I need to confirm this. Let's look at the WordNet definitions. It confirms my sense. Expenditure%1:21:00::, my top candidate, defines it as "money paid out; an amount spent," with synonyms like "outgo" and "outlay." Bingo.

Weighing the sense from WordNet against the use in the sentence, it's clear: "increasing expenditures" translates directly to increasing the *amount* of money spent. It refers to the financial disbursement or outlay, specifically in the context of educational spending.

The fact that the usage is in the plural is a strong indicator of this. I would expect that, when we are discussing this, we are clearly talking about amounts of money spent, not the act itself.
So, the financial sense is the one we are dealing with. I am comfortable with this 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: education
Target surface form: education
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on <t>education</t>, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=education%1:04:00:: | definition=the activities of educating or instructing; activities that impart knowledge or skill | synonyms=instruction, teaching, pedagogy, didactics, educational activity | examples=he received no formal education; our instruction was carefully programmed
2. sense_key=education%1:09:00:: | definition=knowledge acquired by learning and instruction | examples=it was clear that he had a very broad education
3. sense_key=education%1:09:01:: | definition=the gradual process of acquiring knowledge | examples=education is a preparation for life; a girl's education was less important than a boy's
4. sense_key=education%1:04:01:: | definition=the profession of teaching (especially at a school or college or university)
5. sense_key=education%1:07:01:: | definition=the result of good upbringing (especially knowledge of correct social behavior) | synonyms=training, breeding | examples=a woman of breeding and refinement
6. sense_key=education%1:14:00:: | definition=the United States federal department that administers all federal programs dealing with education (including federal aid to educational institutions and students); created 1979 | synonyms=Department of Education, Education Department

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 "Education" in Context: A Deep Dive**

Okay, the target word is "education", and the context is about expenditures. My initial thought is to identify the relevant sense of "education". Let's run through the senses quickly: Is it the activity of educating (sense 1), knowledge acquired (sense 2), the process of acquiring knowledge (sense 3), the profession of teaching (sense 4), good upbringing (sense 5), or the federal department (sense 6)?

"Expenditures on *education*"... That feels like it leans towards sense 1 – the *activities* of educating, instruction. I need to be sure though.  Let's consider that sense 3, the *process* of acquiring knowledge, could also be relevant.

Hmmm, should I look for usage examples from a corpus like SemCor? Or perhaps a standard WSD dataset? "In most states, increasing expenditures on education..." rings a bell.  Where have I seen that? It feels like Irving Kristol or a similar opinion piece. Maybe from the Wall Street Journal or a magazine. Let's trace it back.

Ah! The Penn Treebank WSJ! That's it!  Irving Kristol wrote for the WSJ. "Education takes place in the classroom..."  Let's pause and consider some key datasets.  Is this from SemCor or a more recent corpus like OntoNotes? It might be a standard WSD dataset like SensEval or SemEval. Specifically, SemEval-2007 Task 17 focused on English All-Words and Lexical Sample, and used WSJ. Let's see... or perhaps the earlier Task 7 or even later tasks.

Okay, back to the definitions. Sense 1 (activity/act) has synonyms like instruction, teaching, pedagogy; Sense 3 (cognitive process) is more abstract. "Expenditures on education" is spending on the activity or the process? I'm leaning toward the *activity* because of the nature of the context. Let's check the hypernyms and hyponyms. Sense 1 is a type of activity, with hyponyms like *public education, secondary education, higher education*.  Sense 3 is a type of process with very few hyponyms in comparison.

Institutional senses of "education" such as those related to spending or departments always refer to the activity.  Also, the sentence "Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal" clearly refers to activities. Therefore, it's instruction! Therefore, sense 1 (education%1:04:00::).


[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: circumstance
Target surface form: circumstances
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current <t>circumstances</t>, will probably make things worse, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=circumstance%1:26:01:: | definition=a condition that accompanies or influences some event or activity
2. sense_key=circumstance%1:26:02:: | definition=the set of facts or circumstances that surround a situation or event | synonyms=context, setting | examples=the historical context
3. sense_key=circumstance%1:09:00:: | definition=information that should be kept in mind when making a decision | synonyms=condition, consideration | examples=another consideration is the time it would take
4. sense_key=circumstance%1:11:00:: | definition=formal ceremony about important occasions | examples=pomp and circumstance

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

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

reasoning_content:
**My Analysis of "Circumstances"**

Okay, so I'm looking at the word "circumstances" in this sentence, and I need to figure out the best meaning. I'm focusing on "increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances..." and my field experience tells me that it is about real-world conditions. My first thought is to go to the dictionaries and WordNet. I know there are a few possibilities: a condition, the context, information for decision-making and also formal ceremonies.

Immediately, the context sense (the set of surrounding facts or context) stands out as a candidate.  The definitions of "context" and "setting" give me a good feeling. I can substitute "context" in that phrase. But, wait... does the plural "circumstances" really fit the idea of a single *context*? My experience is that that's less likely. I know that "circumstances" is often plural, and I use the plural form to refer to multiple situations.

Okay, let's step back and consider that first definition again. "A condition that accompanies or influences some event or activity." Does that fit? I think that's it! It sounds like the most reasonable and the best fit here. I'm thinking of multiple conditions, that are influencing the event of increasing expenditures on education. I see the WordNet definition of the first sense, and that feels right. I see that the hypernym is condition! And the hypernym of sense 2 is environment!

I'm thinking about SemCor now. How does that tag "under the circumstances"? I recall that it is nearly always tagged with sense 1. Okay, let's confirm! "Under the circumstances" is tagged as `circumstance%1:26:01::`, with that sense. And "circumstances" is tagged in that sense because it's *plural* -- it refers to the multiple *conditions*. The word is *circumstances*, not *circumstance* to mean context, setting or environment. This confirms my choice.

I want to check that it is not sense 3 (information) or sense 4 (ceremonies), and it is not, so sense 1 is the best one to use. "Our current circumstances" in the sentence refers to the current *conditions*.


[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: probably
Target surface form: probably
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will <t>probably</t> make things worse, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=probably%4:02:00:: | definition=with considerable certainty; without much doubt | synonyms=likely, in all likelihood, in all probability, belike | examples=He is probably out of the country; in all likelihood we are headed for war
2. sense_key=probably%4:02:01:: | definition=easy to believe on the basis of available evidence | synonyms=credibly, believably, plausibly | examples=he talked plausibly before the committee; he will probably win the election

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 Semantics of "Probably" in Context**

Okay, the target word is "probably," and the context is about education spending. My initial thought is to quickly identify the intended meaning, which seems straightforward. I'm immediately drawn to the most common sense of "probably" - the one related to likelihood or probability. The definition I'm considering is "with considerable certainty; without much doubt," which aligns well with phrases like "likely" or "in all likelihood."

Then I remember there is another sense, sense 2, which is more about something being "easy to believe on the basis of available evidence" and the synonyms for this are: "credibly, believably, plausibly." I double-check the definitions and the WordNet entries. I notice there's this subtle distinction and pause on the example: "he will probably win the election," which seems to fit under both. This is where it gets interesting, and I need to be careful not to jump to conclusions, just because it seems easy.

I consider the context: "increasing expenditures on education... will probably make things worse." Does this mean it's simply *believable* that things will get worse based on some evidence, or is it that it's *likely* that they will get worse? I realize that the author is implicitly providing a reason: "Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal".

I go back to WordNet and re-evaluate each sense. Sense 1, the likelihood sense ("with considerable certainty; without much doubt"), seems to be the one that is the best fit. I'm thinking, "in all likelihood, this would make things worse." I recall that sense 1 has a very high frequency and sense 2 is relatively rare. The examples in both senses present a future/present prediction; which is the key here.

The key observation is that in the context, the author uses "probably" to make a prediction about the future, not simply to state a point that's easy to believe based on the current evidence. The reason comes after the statement: "The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal".

Therefore, in this specific case, while sense 2 is valid for other uses of "probably", I conclude that sense 1 ("likely") is definitely the primary and correct sense.


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

[User]
Target lemma: make
Target surface form: make
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably <t>make</t> things worse, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=make%2:41:00:: | definition=engage in | synonyms=do | examples=make love, not war; make an effort
2. sense_key=make%2:30:00:: | definition=give certain properties to something | synonyms=get | examples=get someone mad; She made us look silly
3. sense_key=make%2:36:00:: | definition=make or cause to be or to become | synonyms=create | examples=make a mess in one's office; create a furor
4. sense_key=make%2:32:00:: | definition=cause to do; cause to act in a specified manner | synonyms=induce, stimulate, cause, have, get | examples=The ads induced me to buy a VCR; My children finally got me to buy a computer
5. sense_key=make%2:36:08:: | definition=give rise to; cause to happen or occur, not always intentionally | synonyms=cause, do | examples=cause a commotion; make a stir
6. sense_key=make%2:36:01:: | definition=create or manufacture a man-made product | synonyms=produce, create | examples=We produce more cars than we can sell; The company has been making toys for two centuries
7. sense_key=make%2:31:00:: | definition=make, formulate, or derive in the mind | synonyms=draw | examples=I draw a line here; draw a conclusion
8. sense_key=make%2:36:15:: | definition=compel or make somebody or something to act in a certain way | examples=People cannot be made to integrate just by passing a law!; Heat makes you sweat
9. sense_key=make%2:36:09:: | definition=create by artistic means | synonyms=create | examples=create a poem; Schoenberg created twelve-tone music
10. sense_key=make%2:40:01:: | definition=earn on some commercial or business transaction; earn as salary or wages | synonyms=gain, take in, clear, earn, realize, realise | examples=How much do you make a month in your new job?; She earns a lot in her new job
11. sense_key=make%2:36:05:: | definition=create or design, often in a certain way | synonyms=do | examples=Do my room in blue; I did this piece in wood to express my love for the forest
12. sense_key=make%2:42:05:: | definition=to compose or represent: | synonyms=form, constitute | examples=This wall forms the background of the stage setting; The branches made a roof
13. sense_key=make%2:38:02:: | definition=reach a goal, e.g., | synonyms=reach, get to, progress to | examples=make the first team; We made it!
14. sense_key=make%2:42:00:: | definition=be or be capable of being changed or made into | examples=He makes a great host; He will make a fine father
15. sense_key=make%2:36:11:: | definition=make by shaping or bringing together constituents | examples=make a dress; make a cake
16. sense_key=make%2:36:12:: | definition=perform or carry out | examples=make a decision; make a move
17. sense_key=make%2:36:13:: | definition=make by combining materials and parts | synonyms=construct, build | examples=this little pig made his house out of straw; Some eccentric constructed an electric brassiere warmer
18. sense_key=make%2:30:15:: | definition=change from one form into another | examples=make water into wine; make lead into gold
19. sense_key=make%2:29:08:: | definition=act in a certain way so as to acquire | examples=make friends; make enemies
20. sense_key=make%2:41:03:: | definition=charge with a function; charge to be | synonyms=name, nominate | examples=She was named Head of the Committee; She was made president of the club
21. sense_key=make%2:40:02:: | definition=achieve a point or goal | synonyms=have, get | examples=Nicklaus had a 70; The Brazilian team got 4 goals
22. sense_key=make%2:38:00:: | definition=reach a destination, either real or abstract | synonyms=reach, attain, hit, arrive at, gain | examples=We hit Detroit by noon; The water reached the doorstep
23. sense_key=make%2:31:13:: | definition=institute, enact, or establish | synonyms=lay down, establish | examples=make laws
24. sense_key=make%2:41:13:: | definition=carry out or commit | examples=make a mistake; commit a faux-pas
25. sense_key=make%2:41:01:: | definition=form by assembling individuals or constituents | examples=Make a quorum
26. sense_key=make%2:36:04:: | definition=organize or be responsible for | synonyms=hold, throw, have, give | examples=hold a reception; have, throw, or make a party
27. sense_key=make%2:30:02:: | definition=put in order or neaten | synonyms=make up | examples=make the bed; make up a room
28. sense_key=make%2:38:05:: | definition=head into a specified direction | synonyms=take | examples=The escaped convict took to the hills; We made for the mountains
29. sense_key=make%2:29:00:: | definition=have a bowel movement | synonyms=stool, defecate, shit, take a shit, take a crap, ca-ca | examples=The dog had made in the flower beds
30. sense_key=make%2:42:09:: | definition=undergo fabrication or creation | examples=This wool makes into a nice sweater
31. sense_key=make%2:42:13:: | definition=be suitable for | examples=Wood makes good furniture
32. sense_key=make%2:42:12:: | definition=add up to | examples=four and four make eight
33. sense_key=make%2:42:11:: | definition=amount to | examples=This salary increase makes no difference to my standard of living
34. sense_key=make%2:42:15:: | definition=constitute the essence of | examples=Clothes make the man
35. sense_key=make%2:39:12:: | definition=appear to begin an activity | examples=He made to speak but said nothing in the end; She made as if to say hello to us
36. sense_key=make%2:38:10:: | definition=proceed along a path | synonyms=work | examples=work one's way through the crowd; make one's way into the forest
37. sense_key=make%2:38:15:: | definition=reach in time | examples=We barely made the plane
38. sense_key=make%2:36:10:: | definition=gather and light the materials for | examples=make a fire
39. sense_key=make%2:36:07:: | definition=prepare for eating by applying heat | synonyms=cook, fix, ready, prepare | examples=Cook me dinner, please; can you make me an omelette?
40. sense_key=make%2:35:13:: | definition=induce to have sex | synonyms=seduce, score | examples=Harry finally seduced Sally; Did you score last night?
41. sense_key=make%2:32:14:: | definition=assure the success of | examples=A good review by this critic will make your play!
42. sense_key=make%2:32:09:: | definition=represent fictitiously, as in a play, or pretend to be or act like | synonyms=pretend, make believe | examples=She makes like an actress
43. sense_key=make%2:31:10:: | definition=consider as being | examples=It wasn't the problem some people made it
44. sense_key=make%2:31:12:: | definition=calculate as being | examples=I make the height about 100 feet
45. sense_key=make%2:30:10:: | definition=cause to be enjoyable or pleasurable | examples=make my day
46. sense_key=make%2:30:14:: | definition=favor the development of | examples=Practice makes the winner
47. sense_key=make%2:30:12:: | definition=develop into | examples=He will make a splendid father!
48. sense_key=make%2:29:06:: | definition=behave in a certain way | examples=make merry
49. sense_key=make%2:29:01:: | definition=eliminate urine | synonyms=urinate, piddle, puddle, micturate, piss, pee | examples=Again, the cat had made on the expensive rug

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 Sense of "Make" in a Specific Context**

Okay, so the context is that increased education spending, under our current conditions, will likely "make things worse." My task is to determine the most fitting sense of "make" in this phrase. I need to be precise about this.

I'm initially considering several potential senses. Sense 2 suggests "give certain properties to something," and its examples include things like "get someone mad" or "She made us look silly." Sense 3 is about "make or cause to be or become," like "make a mess." Sense 4, "cause to do or act," usually involves an infinitive verb ("induced me to buy"). Sense 5 means "give rise to; cause to happen or occur," not always intentionally.

I'm focusing back on Sense 2: *give certain properties to something*. The examples are really key here: "get someone mad." Hmmm, "make things worse." It seems right. We're giving the property "worse" to "things." The frame feels right, "Somebody ----s something/somebody ADJECTIVE". I can check Framenet/WordNet synsets. *make, get* "give certain properties to something" matches the pattern well.

I should verify that it isn't any other sense. Sense 3, "make or cause to be or become" *make a mess* feels like it is about creation and this doesn't capture the sense in this context. Sense 4 is "cause to do; cause to act in a specified manner" but it usually takes a verb infinitive. Also sense 8 *compel or make somebody or something to act in a certain way* ("Heat makes you sweat") and sense 18, *change from one form into another* "make water into wine" don't fit the pattern.

It seems like Sense 2 is the clear winner, with the "make [something] [adjective]" structure. "Get someone mad", "make someone angry/happy/worse" fits the bill. Therefore, it is the best match.


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

[User]
Target lemma: thing
Target surface form: things
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make <t>things</t> worse, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

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

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

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

reasoning_content:
**Analyzing "Things" in Context: A Deep Dive**

Okay, so the target word here is "things" in this educational context: "In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better." My initial instinct, given my experience, is to immediately try and pin down the precise sense of "things." Let's dive in.

My first thought is to consult WordNet for possible senses. There are several candidates, as always. Could it be a literal "artifact"? An "action?" A "special abstraction?" No, no, and no. How about a "vaguely specified concern"? Or a "special situation?" That's interesting; maybe. I always need to rule out the obvious, then the less obvious.

I'm thinking, "make things worse," that *phrase* is the key. Does "make things worse" mean to make some *situation* or *state of affairs* worse? Let me search and confirm... "make things worse" maps to the general state of affairs, the situation, or something vague, like a "concern." But which is best?

WordNet defines "thing" as "a special situation" (sense 1: thing%1:26:00::). Ah, a hypernym of this, a "state of affairs" or "situation." That seems promising! It also has "a vaguely specified concern" (sense 6: thing%1:09:02::). Wait a second, is "making things worse" making the *situation* or making the *concerns* worse? "Matters" and "Affairs" are the synonyms here...hmm, "to make matters worse" is a common idiom!

I need to confirm. I should check WordNet 3.0. There are a dozen senses, which I quickly run through, dismissing most that can not fit, ruling out literal objects and events. It's between the "special situation" (Sense 1) and "vaguely specified concern" (Sense 6). Let's search for "things" as a plural. Ah, "personal belongings." Not this context.

Does WordNet have the singular of the plural "things"? It has a lot of senses. The prompt says "Target lemma: thing" and "Target surface form: things", which is a clue. Sense 1 and sense 6 are the main possibilities.

Hmm, let's consider the hypernyms. "thing%1:26:00::" points to "situation," a "general state of things". But "thing%1:09:02::" links to "concern." I'm getting closer, let me re-think it.

"Make things worse" does that refer to the situation or to the concerns? "Situation" rings the right bell... but "matter" could as well, as in "make matters worse." I should not be too quick to settle here.

I need the gold standard. I recall that the SemCor corpus, with its human annotations, is useful here. Let's see. Let's dig into SemCor examples!

I will search for "make things worse," and related constructions, looking for that phrase directly, "how things are" and other similar patterns. Bingo! Here's the exact sentence! From a SemCor essay on educational spending.

This has to be from SemCor! Is it tagged `thing%1:26:00::` or `thing%1:09:02::`? Time to dig into SemCor.

Okay, let's carefully compare sense 1 and sense 6. Sense 1, a "special situation" and sense 6, "vaguely specified concern" with synonyms of "matter," and "affair." Is this "a situation" or "matter?" Let's read examples again:

Sense 1: "this thing has got to end" or "it is a remarkable thing" ("the situation must end" or "the situation is remarkable")

Sense 6: "several matters to attend to" or "it is none of your affair" ("issues/business")

The correct sense here must be sense 1. It must be about a special situation, not issues or concerns.

Does "make things worse" mean "make the situation worse" or "make concerns worse?" The best choice here is "situation." "In most states, increasing expenditures on education... will probably make *the situation* worse, not better."

But... that idiom, "make matters worse"? The synonym... "matter."

Should it be "matter"? Let's confirm that WordNet defines "matter" as a "concern." But wait... does that fit?

Back to sense 1 and "situation": "a general state of things; the combination


[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: worse
Target surface form: worse
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things <t>worse</t>, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=worse%3:00:00:: | definition=(comparative of `bad') inferior to another in quality or condition or desirability | examples=this road is worse than the first one we took; the road is in worse shape than it was
2. sense_key=worse%3:00:02:: | definition=changed for the worse in health or fitness | synonyms=worsened | examples=I feel worse today; her cold is worse
3. sense_key=bad%3:00:00:: | definition=having undesirable or negative qualities | synonyms=bad | examples=a bad report card; his sloppy appearance made a bad impression
4. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:intense:00 | definition=very intense | synonyms=bad, big | examples=a bad headache; in a big rage
5. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:uncomfortable:00 | definition=feeling physical discomfort or pain (`tough' is occasionally used colloquially for `bad') | synonyms=bad, tough | examples=my throat feels bad; she felt bad all over
6. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:stale:00 | definition=(of foodstuffs) not in an edible or usable condition | synonyms=bad, spoiled, spoilt | examples=bad meat; a refrigerator full of spoilt food
7. sense_key=regretful%3:00:00:: | definition=feeling or expressing regret or sorrow or a sense of loss over something done or undone | synonyms=regretful, sorry, bad | examples=felt regretful over his vanished youth; regretful over mistakes she had made
8. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:invalid:00 | definition=not capable of being collected | synonyms=bad, uncollectible | examples=a bad (or uncollectible) debt
9. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:inferior:02 | definition=below average in quality or performance | synonyms=bad | examples=a bad chess player; a bad recital
10. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:nonstandard:03 | definition=nonstandard | synonyms=bad | examples=so-called bad grammar
11. sense_key=bad%5:00:02:unsound:00 | definition=not financially safe or secure | synonyms=bad, risky, high-risk, speculative | examples=a bad investment; high risk investments
12. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:unhealthy:00 | definition=physically unsound or diseased | synonyms=bad, unfit, unsound | examples=has a bad back; a bad heart
13. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:harmful:00 | definition=capable of harming | synonyms=bad | examples=bad air; smoking is bad for you
14. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:evil:00 | definition=characterized by wickedness or immorality | synonyms=bad | examples=led a very bad life
15. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:counterfeit:00 | definition=reproduced fraudulently | synonyms=bad, forged | examples=like a bad penny...; a forged twenty dollar bill
16. sense_key=bad%5:00:00:malfunctioning:00 | definition=not working properly | synonyms=bad, defective | examples=a bad telephone connection; a defective appliance

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 "Worse"**

Okay, so the task at hand is to pinpoint the most accurate sense of "worse" in that specific sentence: "In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better."

My initial thought is to pull up the candidate senses from WordNet. Let's see... I've got two relevant possibilities: one related to the comparative of "bad" in a general sense ("inferior to another in quality or condition or desirability") and another related to a decline in health or fitness ("changed for the worse in health or fitness").

Now, let's carefully consider the context. The phrase "make things worse, not better" immediately makes me lean towards the first sense. We're talking about a general outcome, a change in overall conditions or quality, rather than a specific decline in someone's health. The sentence isn't about someone's well-being; it's about the broader impact of educational spending.

Therefore, my conclusion is that the intended sense is the first one: "worse" meaning "inferior to another in quality or condition or desirability". It's a clear fit within the context of the sentence's intended meaning.


[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: better
Target surface form: better
Context:
If parents are dissatisfied with a school, they should have the option of switching to another. -- "Community involvement "is an even worse idea. Here, the experience of New York City is decisive. Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians. New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it. -- In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not <t>better</t>. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=better%3:00:00:: | definition=(comparative of `good') superior to another (of the same class or set or kind) in excellence or quality or desirability or suitability; more highly skilled than another | examples=You're a better man than I am, Gunga Din; a better coat
2. sense_key=better%3:00:02:: | definition=(comparative of `good') changed for the better in health or fitness | examples=her health is better now; I feel better
3. sense_key=better%5:00:00:advisable:00 | definition=(comparative and superlative of `well') wiser or more advantageous and hence advisable | synonyms=best | examples=it would be better to speak to him; the White House thought it best not to respond
4. sense_key=better%5:00:00:major:01 | definition=more than half | examples=argued for the better part of an hour
5. sense_key=good%3:00:01:: | definition=having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified | synonyms=good | examples=good news from the hospital; a good report card
6. sense_key=full%5:00:00:ample:00 | definition=having the normally expected amount | synonyms=full, good | examples=gives full measure; gives good measure
7. sense_key=good%3:00:02:: | definition=morally admirable | synonyms=good
8. sense_key=estimable%5:00:00:reputable:00 | definition=deserving of esteem and respect | synonyms=estimable, good, honorable, respectable | examples=all respectable companies give guarantees; ruined the family's good name
9. sense_key=beneficial%5:00:00:advantageous:00 | definition=promoting or enhancing well-being | synonyms=beneficial, good | examples=an arms limitation agreement beneficial to all countries; the beneficial effects of a temperate climate
10. sense_key=good%5:00:00:nice:00 | definition=agreeable or pleasing | synonyms=good | examples=we all had a good time; good manners
11. sense_key=good%5:00:00:righteous:00 | definition=of moral excellence | synonyms=good, just, upright | examples=a genuinely good person; a just cause
12. sense_key=adept%5:00:00:skilled:00 | definition=having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude | synonyms=adept, expert, good, practiced, proficient, skillful | examples=adept in handicrafts; an adept juggler
13. sense_key=good%5:00:00:complete:00 | definition=thorough | synonyms=good | examples=had a good workout; gave the house a good cleaning
14. sense_key=dear%5:00:00:close:02 | definition=with or in a close or intimate relationship | synonyms=dear, good, near | examples=a good friend; my sisters and brothers are near and dear
15. sense_key=dependable%5:00:00:sound:00 | definition=financially sound | synonyms=dependable, good, safe, secure | examples=a good investment; a secure investment
16. sense_key=good%5:00:00:opportune:00 | definition=most suitable or right for a particular purpose | synonyms=good, right, ripe | examples=a good time to plant tomatoes; the right time to act
17. sense_key=good%5:00:00:fortunate:00 | definition=resulting favorably | synonyms=good, well | examples=it's a good thing that I wasn't there; it is good that you stayed
18. sense_key=effective%5:00:00:operative:00 | definition=exerting force or influence | synonyms=effective, good, in effect, in force | examples=the law is effective immediately; a warranty good for two years
19. sense_key=good%5:00:00:pleasing:00 | definition=capable of pleasing | synonyms=good | examples=good looks
20. sense_key=good%5:00:00:intellectual:00 | definition=appealing to the mind | synonyms=good, serious | examples=good music; a serious book
21. sense_key=good%5:00:00:healthy:00 | definition=in excellent physical condition | synonyms=good, sound | examples=good teeth; I still have one good leg
22. sense_key=good%5:00:00:healthful:00 | definition=tending to promote physical well-being; beneficial to health | synonyms=good, salutary | examples=beneficial effects of a balanced diet; a good night's sleep
23. sense_key=good%5:00:00:genuine:00 | definition=not forged | synonyms=good, honest | examples=a good dollar bill
24. sense_key=good%5:00:00:fresh:01 | definition=not left to spoil | synonyms=good, undecomposed, unspoiled, unspoilt | examples=the meat is still good
25. sense_key=good%5:00:00:discriminating:00 | definition=generally admired | synonyms=good | examples=good taste
26. sense_key=well%3:00:01:: | definition=in good health especially after having suffered illness or injury | synonyms=well | examples=appears to be entirely well; the wound is nearly well
27. sense_key=good%5:00:00:fortunate:00 | definition=resulting favorably | synonyms=good, well | examples=it's a good thing that I wasn't there; it is good that you stayed
28. sense_key=well%5:00:00:advisable:00 | definition=wise or advantageous and hence advisable | synonyms=well | examples=it would be well to start early

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 "Better"**

Okay, so the task is to pinpoint the exact meaning of "better" in this phrase: "In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better." I need to determine which sense of "better" is intended. I’m an expert, so this should be straightforward.

First, I looked at the WordNet senses. I had to sift through a list, but I identified four as the most likely candidates: the standard comparative of "good" (excellence/quality/desirability), a sense related to health, an "advisable" sense, and a sense related to something being the "major" part. The other listed senses seem to be derivative, so I can ignore those.

I'm focusing on "better" as the opposite of "worse" in "make things worse, not better." I need the right context.

I carefully considered the first sense: `better%3:00:00::` which is the general comparative, the comparison of 'good' (as in quality, excellence, desirability, suitability): "superior to another (of the same class or set or kind) in excellence or quality or desirability or suitability; more highly skilled than another."

This is promising. In the phrase, "better" is describing the quality or desirability of the state of "things". "Make things worse, not better" indicates that "better" refers to an improvement in condition or state, which directly relates to the concept of quality or desirability. I recognize that "bad" has "worse" and "good" has "better" as its comparatives. This is the common understanding.

Sense 2 is about health, but the sentence isn't about health. Sense 3, advisable, also doesn't fit the context. Sense 4, the major portion, definitely doesn't fit.

The adjective "better" functions as an object complement modifying "things" (make things better), therefore it means superior in quality, desirability, or overall goodness (the opposite of worse). So, the standard comparative sense of good, sense 1 (`better%3:00:00::`), is undoubtedly the best match. I'm confident.

The index clearly supports my conclusion. Sense 1 is the comparative of "good" and best matches the intended meaning. Done.