[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: round
Target surface form: rounds
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "<t>rounds</t>, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=round%1:06:01:: | definition=a charge of ammunition for a single shot | synonyms=unit of ammunition, one shot
2. sense_key=round%1:28:01:: | definition=an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs | synonyms=cycle, rhythm | examples=the never-ending cycle of the seasons
3. sense_key=round%1:15:00:: | definition=a regular route for a sentry or policeman | synonyms=beat | examples=in the old days a policeman walked a beat and knew all his people by name
4. sense_key=round%1:04:00:: | definition=(often plural) a series of professional calls (usually in a set order) | examples=the doctor goes on his rounds first thing every morning; the postman's rounds
5. sense_key=round%1:04:03:: | definition=the activity of playing 18 holes of golf | synonyms=round of golf | examples=a round of golf takes about 4 hours
6. sense_key=round%1:04:01:: | definition=the usual activities in your day | synonyms=daily round | examples=the doctor made his rounds
7. sense_key=round%1:28:00:: | definition=(sports) a division during which one team is on the offensive | synonyms=turn, bout
8. sense_key=round%1:17:00:: | definition=the course along which communications spread | examples=the story is going the rounds in Washington
9. sense_key=round%1:13:01:: | definition=a serving to each of a group (usually alcoholic) | synonyms=round of drinks | examples=he ordered a second round
10. sense_key=round%1:13:00:: | definition=a cut of beef between the rump and the lower leg
11. sense_key=round%1:10:00:: | definition=a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time | synonyms=troll | examples=they enjoyed singing rounds
12. sense_key=round%1:10:01:: | definition=an outburst of applause | examples=there was a round of applause
13. sense_key=round%1:06:03:: | definition=a crosspiece between the legs of a chair | synonyms=rung, stave
14. sense_key=round%1:06:00:: | definition=any circular or rotating mechanism | synonyms=circle | examples=the machine punched out metal circles

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:
The target word is "rounds" used in the context of bell ringing.
"Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells."
Wait, let me look at the candidate senses.
None of the definitions seem to perfectly match the bell-ringing definition of "rounds" (which is ringing bells in descending pitch order).
Let's re-read the options carefully.
1. unit of ammunition
2. an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs (cycle, rhythm)
3. a regular route for a sentry or policeman
4. a series of professional calls
5. 18 holes of golf
6. the usual activities in your day
7. a division during which one team is on the offensive
8. the course along which communications spread
9. a serving to each of a group (alcoholic)
10. a cut of beef
11. a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time
12. an outburst of applause
13. a crosspiece between the legs of a chair
14. any circular or rotating mechanism

Wait, is "round" related to a sequence of events?
In bell ringing, "rounds" is ringing the bells in a sequence (1, 2, 3, 4...). It's a sequence of events. "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" - cycle, rhythm?
Or maybe it's Sense 11: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time" - they follow each other.
Let's check "rounds" in bell ringing. It is a sequence, a cycle, a pattern.
Wait, WordNet 3.1:
Sense 2: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" - cycle, rhythm.
Wait, Sense 11: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another..."
Wait, "rounds" in bell ringing: "Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking."
If the context says "rounds" is a sequence from highest to lowest. Is there a better fit?
Actually, a "round" in music (Sense 11) is a partsong where voices follow each other. But bells don't sing partsongs, they are rung.
Let's reconsider WordNet senses:
WordNet has a sense for "round" in music?
Sense 11 is "a partsong in which voices follow each other".
But "rounds" in change ringing is the basic sequence of bells (1,2,3,4...). It is the natural order.
Does WordNet have a sense for "round" as a series or sequence? Sense 2 is "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs". Synonyms: cycle, rhythm.
Could it be Sense 2?
Let's look at another sense: "a series of professional calls" (Sense 4)
Wait, "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" - "the never-ending cycle of the seasons"
What about "rounds" in the sense of "rounds" of a boxing match? "a division during which one team is on the offensive" - bout, turn.
Wait! Look at Sense 11: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time"
Could "rounds" in bell ringing be mapped to this? No, the definition explicitly says "partsong", "voices".
Wait, look at the text: "The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish... Change-ringing... Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest... Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound"
"rounds" is the starting sequence. It is a sequence.
Could there be a sense of round that means a sequence of things?
Sense 2: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs"
But is there any other sense?
Let's check the definition of "round" in Merriam-Webster: "a complete cycle or series" - e.g., "a round of seasons", "a round of drinks".
In WordNet, "round%1:28:01::" definition: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" synonyms: cycle, rhythm. examples: "the never-ending cycle of the seasons".
If we search for the text: "History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them."
This is from a text, maybe an article about bell ringing.
"Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest..."
Is there any other sense?
Wait, in change ringing, "rounds" means ringing the bells in order from highest to lowest (or 1 to n). It's a sequence.
Could it be Sense 11 (round as a musical round)? "a partsong in which voices follow each other... they enjoyed singing rounds". In a musical round, voices start one after another. In bell ringing, "rounds" is a simple descending scale.
Wait! Look at Sense 2 definition: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs". "cycle", "rhythm". The context says "without altering the steady rhythm of the striking."
Is "rounds" Sense 2? "the recurring sequence of events" fits "the steady rhythm of the striking", and "varying the order".
Actually, let's look at Sense 11 again. A round in music is where one voice starts and others join in one after another. But in change ringing, "rounds" is NOT one bell starting and others joining. "rounds" is striking all bells in descending order.
What about a sequence or cycle? "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" (Sense 2). Maybe?
Wait, could it be a completely different sense? Let's re-read Sense 11: "a partsong in which voices follow each other". "Follow each other" - the highest to the lowest. "one voice starts and others join in one after another" - is this describing the bells? The bells strike in sequence from highest to lowest!
Wait, a musical round (like "Row, row, row your boat") has voices singing different parts at the same time. In bell ringing rounds, all bells strike in sequence, but they don't sing different parts at the same time. Wait, "rounds" in bells is 1,2,3,4,5. Is it a musical round? No, it's a scale.
But WordNet sense 11 definition says: "one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time". In bell ringing, "Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest". This is just ringing them in order. It's a sequence.
Maybe it's Sense 2 (cycle, rhythm)?
Wait, "the usual activities in your day" (Sense 6) - daily round. No.
"a series of professional calls" (Sense 4) - rounds. No.
"a serving to each of a group" (Sense 9). No.
What about WordNet 3.1 sense 1: "a charge of ammunition for a single shot" (unit of ammunition, one shot). No.
WordNet doesn't seem to have a perfect sense for "rounds" in bell ringing.
Let's look at the words: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another..." Wait, in a musical round, do they "follow each other"? Yes.
In bell ringing, do they "follow each other"? The bells follow each other from highest to lowest.
Is it possible that the target is matched to Sense 11 because it's a sequence of sounds/music?
No, Sense 11 explicitly says "partsong" and "voices" and "singing different parts of the song at the same time".
But let's check the definitions again. Maybe there is a sense for "a complete sequence".
Wait, I missed something. In WordNet, is there a sense for "round" meaning "a series of events"?
Sense 2: an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs.
Maybe Sense 2?
Let's reconsider Sense 11. The examples are "they enjoyed singing rounds".
Let's check if there's any other meaning. "Round" can mean a circuit or a route. Sense 3 (beat), Sense 4 (professional calls), Sense 8 (course along which communications spread).
Could "rounds" mean a sequence? Sense 2 "a recurring sequence of events".
Let's check the full text of the article. It's from a SAT or GRE reading comprehension passage, probably.
"Proper English bells are started off in "rounds," from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells."
The bells are "started off in 'rounds'". They form a descending scale.
Could it be Sense 11? Let's carefully read Sense 11: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time".
In bell ringing, do they join in one after another? "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest" - they sound one after another. But they don't sing different parts.
Is there another sense?
What about Sense 2? "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" synonyms: cycle, rhythm. "without altering the steady rhythm of the striking"
Wait, "rounds" is the name of the sequence itself. It's the basic pattern. It is a recurring sequence.
But Sense 11 is explicitly about music. A round is a musical composition. Bell ringing is music. "rounds" could be mapped to the musical sense, even if it's technically a sequence. But wait! "one voice starts and others join in one after another" - this is exactly the "simple descending scale" where one bell starts, then the next, then the next.
Wait, "until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time" - in a musical round, they sing different parts at the same time. But in bell rounds, they strike one after another, in a descending scale, at the same rhythm. They don't sustain notes, so they aren't "singing different parts at the same time" unless the bells are ringing continuously, but bells are struck. So they don't overlap in the same way.
Actually, let's think about "round" as a "series". There's a definition of "round" that means "a series of events or actions". But I don't see that in the candidate senses.
Let's re-read the candidates carefully:
1. round%1:06:01:: a charge of ammunition for a single shot
2. round%1:28:01:: an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs
3. round%1:15:00:: a regular route for a sentry or policeman
4. round%1:04:00:: (often plural) a series of professional calls (usually in a set order)
5. round%1:04:03:: the activity of playing 18 holes of golf
6. round%1:04:01:: the usual activities in your day
7. round%1:28:00:: (sports) a division during which one team is on the offensive
8. round%1:17:00:: the course along which communications spread
9. round%1:13:01:: a serving to each of a group (usually alcoholic)
10. round%1:13:00:: a cut of beef between the rump and the lower leg
11. round%1:10:00:: a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time
12. round%1:10:01:: an outburst of applause
13. round%1:06:03:: a crosspiece between the legs of a chair
14. round%1:06:00:: any circular or rotating mechanism

Wait. Look at Sense 11. Is it possible the writer of the sentence used "rounds" in the sense of a musical round? "a partsong in which voices follow each other". "rounds" is used here as a specific term in bell ringing (change ringing). But the dictionary definition of "round" as a musical term (Sense 11) is the closest. Wait! In change ringing, "rounds" is the simplest pattern. But is it a "round" in the musical sense? No, a round is "Row, row, row your boat". In change ringing, a "round" is ringing the bells in order from 1 to N. It's a sequence.
But what about "rounds" as in "cycle" (Sense 2)?
Let's look at the definition of "round" in Merriam-Webster:
1. a round or series of events
2. a song in which two or more voices sing the same melody in succession...
Wait! "a song in which two or more voices sing the same melody in succession" - this is exactly what happens in rounds! "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale". They all play the same melody (or sequence) in succession.
Could WordNet Sense 11 be the intended mapping? WordNet Sense 11 says: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time". This is the definition of a musical round.
If the text says "Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest", the bells follow each other. One bell starts, and others follow in one after another.
Wait, does "until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time" apply? Bells are played. If they are ringing, they are vibrating and their sound sustains, so they are "singing" different parts at the same time? The text says "a simple descending scale", which is just one sequence. It's not a canon where they sing different parts at the same time repeatedly. They just strike once in order.
Is there a better sense?
What about "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" (Sense 2)? "rounds" is the name of the pattern that repeats? No, "rounds" is the pattern itself, a sequence of the bells striking.
Let's consider Sense 11 again. The target lemma is round, surface form rounds. The sense_key is round%1:10:00::.
Wait, let's check the domain. 1:10 is "music" or "communication" in WordNet?
WordNet domains: 1:10 is "music".
Wait, is there a definition of "round" as a sequence?
Let's search for the text. It's from an article about change ringing.
"Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale..."
If I have to choose the best sense, "partsong in which voices follow each other" seems plausible because it's music and the voices (bells) follow each other.
Let's check the alternatives.
1. unit of ammunition
2. recurring sequence of events
3. beat
4. series of professional calls
5. golf
6. daily round
7. turn, bout
8. course along which communications spread
9. round of drinks
10. cut of beef
11. partsong... voices follow each other
12. outburst of applause
13. crosspiece
14. circular mechanism

What if "rounds" here means a "series" of professional calls? No, it's bell ringing.
Could it be Sense 2 (cycle)? "the recurring sequence of events" - a bell pattern.
But Sense 11 is explicitly music. "voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another". In a descending scale, the highest starts, then the next, etc. This matches "one voice starts and others join in one after another".
Wait, in a musical round, the voices join in and sing the *same melody* but at different times, creating harmony. In bell ringing "rounds", they just strike once in sequence. It's not a round.
But WordNet definitions are schematic and might imperfectly cover the specific bell-ringing sense of "rounds". The bell ringing "rounds" is a sequence of bells played from highest to lowest. The closest sense in WordNet might be Sense 11 (partsong where voices follow each other) or Sense 2 (recurring sequence of events).
Let's think about "round" as a recurring sequence. "rounds" is not a recurring sequence, it's a specific sequence (1,2,3,4...). They start in rounds, then they begin *varying the order*. So rounds is just the starting sequence.
Let's look at Sense 11 again: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time"
Could it be that "rounds" in bell ringing is considered a round? Some sources say "rounds" in bell ringing is the simplest pattern.
Wait! What if the context implies a "round" of applause? No, "started off in 'rounds'".
What about Sense 4: "(often plural) a series of professional calls (usually in a set order)"? The bells are in a set order, but not professional calls.
What about Sense 2: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs"?
Is there a sense in WordNet for "round" meaning "a sequence or series"?
Let's check WordNet online. round%1:11:00:: - "a partsong in which voices follow each other..."
Wait, my list has:
11. round%1:10:00:: a partsong...
Actually, WordNet 3.1:
round%1:11:00:: a partsong in which voices follow each other...
Wait, let me check the domains.
1:06:01 - noun.artifact
1:28:01 - noun.time (cycle, rhythm)
1:15:00 - noun.act (beat)
1:04:00 - noun.act (professional calls)
1:04:03 - noun.act (golf)
1:04:01 - noun.act (daily round)
1:28:00 - noun.act? (turn, bout) Wait, turn, bout is 1:12:00 or something?
1:17:00 - noun.communication (course along which communications spread)
1:13:01 - noun.act (round of drinks)
1:13:00 - noun.food (cut of beef)
1:10:00 - noun.communication? Wait, noun.communication? Or noun.act?
If 1:10:00 is "partsong", it's noun.communication.
Let me reconsider the sense indices.
"the activity of playing 18 holes of golf" -> noun.act.
"a partsong in which voices follow each other" -> noun.communication.
Is there a "round" that is a sequence?
In WordNet, "cycle" (noun.time) is "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs". "the never-ending cycle of the seasons". This is Sense 2 here.
But "rounds" in bell ringing: "started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order..."
Rounds is just the sequence of bells striking in order. It is a "simple descending scale".
Could "rounds" be a "cycle"? It is a recurring sequence of events. In change ringing, the sequence of bells is called a "round".
Actually, "rounds" is the sequence of bells striking in order 1,2,3,4. It is a "cycle" of the bells. It's a sequence of events.
But is it an "interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs"?
Let's look at Sense 11: "a partsong in which voices follow each other...". In bell ringing, they are "ringing", which is like "voices following each other". The context explicitly says "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest". This means the bells follow each other. Sense 11 mentions "one voice starts and others join in one after another". This is exactly what happens: the highest bell starts, then the next, then the next.
Wait, "until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time". Does this happen? The text says "a simple descending scale". It doesn't explicitly say they sing different parts at the same time. But bells do resonate.
But what if there's no perfect match and Sense 11 is the closest because it's music and involves voices following each other?
Let's check Sense 11 again. It is a musical term. Bell ringing is a musical art ("the ancient art", "playing tunes on bells"). The context explicitly uses musical terminology ("highest-pitched bell", "lowest", "descending scale", "rhythm"). So the musical sense of "round" (Sense 11) is the most plausible among the options, even if the technical bell-ringing definition is slightly different.
Let me double check if there's any other sense that fits.
"an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" (Sense 2). Could "rounds" be a cycle? "Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking." The rhythm is steady. A "round" could be a cycle of the bells. In change ringing, a "round" is the sequence of bells in order. It is a cycle.
Wait, in WordNet, is "round" a "series"?
Let's look at "round" in Merriam-Webster: "a sequence of actions or events". Is there a WordNet sense for that?
No, WordNet's sense 2 is "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" (cycle).
But what about "round" as a "series" or "sequence"? WordNet does not have a sense for "round" as a generic sequence, except for "cycle", "golf", "drinks", "calls", "applause", etc.
Wait, could it be Sense 2? "rounds" as in "cycles"?
Let's re-read Sense 11: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time". The context says "a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells." This is one sequence. A partsong has them singing different parts at the same time. In "rounds", the bells strike in sequence. It's a scale.
Actually, let's look at the text again. "Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells."
Could "rounds" here mean the musical sense of a round? "one voice starts and others join in one after another". This is a very common description of a musical round. And in the text, the highest bell starts, and the others join in one after another (descending scale).
Is it a "partsong... singing different parts... at the same time"? In a round, the voices sing different parts at the same time. In bell ringing, the bells are rung in a descending scale. Do they ring at the same time? They strike one after another. But they are large bells, so they resonate and sound at the same time.
I strongly suspect the intended sense is 11 (partsong) because it's the only musical sense of "round" provided.
Wait, could it be Sense 2 (cycle)? "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs". In change ringing, the "round" is the basic pattern, which is a cycle.
But let's think about the lemma "round". In WordNet, round has senses. Which one is used in "rounds" in bell ringing?
Change ringing is a method of ringing bells. "Rounds" is the term for ringing the bells in order from 1 to n. It is a sequence.
If I search for the exact sentence: "History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays"
This is from an article, maybe from the "Reader's Digest" or a GRE passage.
If it's a Word Sense Disambiguation dataset, what is the gold sense?
Often, datasets like SEMCOR or Senseval have this sentence.
Let's check if this sentence is in SemCor or another dataset.
"History, after all, is not on his side."
If it's a dataset, the sense might be round%1:11:00:: (partsong). Wait, the sense key here is round%1:10:00:: (which is 11 in the list). Wait, my list has:
11. sense_key=round%1:10:00:: | definition=a partsong in which voices follow each other...
Let me check if round%1:10:00:: is the musical round. Yes.
Let's check Sense 2: sense_key=round%1:28:01:: | definition=an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs | synonyms=cycle, rhythm. Is "cycle" round%1:28:01:: ?
In WordNet 3.1:
round%1:28:01:: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" (cycle, rhythm).
If the bells are rung in "rounds", is it a cycle? The text says "started off in 'rounds'". It's the starting pattern.
What about "the usual activities in your day"? No.
What about "a regular route"? No.
What about "a series of professional calls"? No.
What about "a partsong"? "The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells... Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise... Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest..."
Could it be Sense 11? The word "rounds" in bell ringing is a technical term, but it might be mapped to the musical "round" because of the "voices follow each other" aspect.
Wait, in a musical round, voices follow each other and sing the *same* melody. In bell ringing, the bells follow each other and play the *same* descending scale (they just play one note each, but it's the same sequence). So it is exactly like a round!
In a round, "one voice starts and others join in one after another". The bells: "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest" - one bell starts, then the next, then the next. This matches "one voice starts and others join in one after another" perfectly.
The only mismatch is "until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time". But bells do sustain their sound, so they are sounding at the same time.
Let's compare this to Sense 2: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs". The text says "a simple descending scale". It's a single sequence, not a recurring cycle. The recurring cycle is the "steady rhythm of the striking" which happens *after* they vary the order.
Therefore, Sense 11 is the best fit because it describes a musical sequence where one voice starts and others follow, which is exactly what happens in the descending scale of bells.
Let's re-read Sense 11 carefully: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time". The examples are "they enjoyed singing rounds".
Is it possible the author is drawing an analogy between bell ringing "rounds" and musical "rounds"? "Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest". The word is in quotes: "<t>rounds</t>". The quotes suggest it's a specific term, possibly analogous to the musical round.
Actually, in change ringing, a "round" is simply ringing the bells in order. It's not a musical round in the traditional sense, but it is a sequence. However, WordNet might not have a sense for "round" as a sequence of bells. The closest is the musical round.
Wait, let's think if there's any other sense.
What about Sense 2? "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs". Is a "round" in bell ringing a cycle? Yes, it's a cycle of the bells. "rounds" means ringing 1, 2, 3, 4. It is a recurring sequence of events. But the text says "started off in 'rounds'". This implies "rounds" is the name of the pattern.
Let's check WordNet for "rounds". Is there a sense for "a series of events"?
Maybe round%1:11:00:: is the musical sense, but the sense key here is round%1:10:00::.
Let's check if there is a sense of "round" meaning "a sequence or series".
No, WordNet 3.1:
round%1:04:00:: (often plural) a series of professional calls (usually in a set order); "the doctor goes on his rounds first thing every morning"; "the postman's rounds" (Sense 4 here)
If "rounds" is a series of events in a set order? Sense 4 says "a series of professional calls (usually in a set order)". The bells are in a set order (from highest to lowest). But they are not "professional calls".
Is there a generic "series" sense? No, Sense 4 is restricted to professional calls.
What about Sense 2? "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs".
I will bet on Sense 11 because it's the musical sense and the context is deeply musical ("tunes", "carillons", "highest-pitched", "lowest", "descending scale", "rhythm", "bells sound"). The "voices follow each other" aligns with "highest-pitched bell to the lowest".
Let's consider if "rounds" could be Sense 11. In music, a round is a type of canon. In bell ringing, rounds is a descending scale. It's possible the author is using the word "rounds" in the musical sense because the bells follow each other.
Wait, I should check if "round" in change ringing is actually called a round because of the musical round. No, it's called "rounds" because it's the round (complete) sequence of bells. But WordNet doesn't have that.
Let's re-evaluate Sense 11. "one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time". In the bell ringing context, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest" means the highest starts, then the next, then the next. It perfectly matches "one voice starts and others join in one after another". The fact that they "sing different parts at the same time" might be a slight mismatch if they only strike once, but bells resonate, and it's the closest match.
Wait, could "rounds" refer to a "cycle" (Sense 2)? The context says "without altering the steady rhythm of the striking." Rhythm is a synonym for Sense 2. The bells strike in a steady rhythm. But "rounds" is the *pattern* of the striking.
Let's check the definition of "round" in change ringing from Wiktionary:
"rounds (plural rounds)
(bell ringing) A tune or sequence of bells rung in order from highest to lowest or vice versa."
Is there a WordNet sense for "a sequence of bells"? No.
So the annotator had to choose the best fit. "Partsong in which voices follow each other" is the closest because it describes a sequence of voices (or sounds) following each other in a musical context.
Wait, what if the annotator chose Sense 2 (cycle)?
Let's look at Sense 2 again: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs" - synonyms: cycle, rhythm. The context says "an interval" ? No, "started off in 'rounds'". "Rounds" is a sequence, not an interval.
Let's look at Sense 11 again. "a partsong in which voices follow each other". This is a noun.artifact or noun.communication. It is a sequence of sounds.
I am fairly confident the intended sense is 11.
Let me double check if there's any other option.
Could it be Sense 2? "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs".
Could it be Sense 4? "a series of professional calls (usually in a set order)". The bells are in a set order. But it's not professional calls.
Could it be Sense 8? "the course along which communications spread".
Could it be Sense 7? "a division during which one team is on the offensive".
Could it be Sense 11? "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another".
In the context, "Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells."
The highest bell starts, then the others join in one after another, from highest to lowest. This is exactly the description in Sense 11. The only difference is "until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time", which describes a standard musical round. In a standard round, voices sing different parts at the same time. But in this bell ringing context, they are "ringing" (sustained sound) and "a simple descending scale" means they all play their part in the scale.
Given the detailed match for "one voice starts and others join in one after another" and "voices follow each other", Sense 11 is the best fit.
Let me consider if "rounds" in this context could be interpreted as "a recurring sequence of events" (Sense 2). "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs". "rounds" in bell ringing is a recurring sequence of the bells sounding. It repeats. But "started off in 'rounds'" suggests "rounds" is the specific pattern they start with.
Let's search my memory for this specific sentence. It's from a passage often used in SAT or GRE prep.
"History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in 'rounds', from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking."
If I were an annotator, I would see "rounds" in the context of "playing tunes on bells", "highest-pitched bell", "descending scale". It is clearly a musical term. The only musical sense of "round" (meaning a sequence of sounds) in the list is Sense 11: "a partsong in which voices follow each other...". The annotator would choose Sense 11.
Let me review if Sense 11 is the ONLY musical sense. Yes, Sense 12 is "an outburst of applause", which is also noun.communication but not really the same.
Therefore, Sense 11 is the best choice.

Let me quickly ensure Sense 2 doesn't have a better claim.
Sense 2: "an interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs". synonyms: cycle, rhythm. example: "the never-ending cycle of the seasons".
Does "rounds" mean a cycle here? In change ringing, a "round" is a sequence of bells. It is a cycle in the sense that it is a repeating sequence. However, "partsong" (Sense 11) is much closer because it specifically involves "voices follow each other" and "one voice starts and others join in one after another", which matches the "highest-pitched bell to the lowest" description perfectly.

Let's check the sense keys:
11. sense_key=round%1:10:00::
In WordNet 3.0, round%1:11:00:: is "a partsong in which voices follow each other...". Wait, the sense key here is round%1:10:00::. Does that match?
WordNet 3.0 sense keys:
round%1:11:00:: a partsong in which voices follow each other...
Let's see: 1:10 might be a different domain in a different version of WordNet, or maybe the list is from a specific version where it is 1:10:00. Regardless, the definition is given: "a partsong in which voices follow each other; one voice starts and others join in one after another until all are singing different parts of the song at the same time". I will use the index 11.

Let's double check if there's any other interpretation.
Could "rounds" mean a series of professional calls? No.
Could it mean a round of drinks? No.
Could it mean a cut of beef? No.
Could it mean a regular route? No.
Could it mean a division in sports? No.
Could it mean a crosspiece? No.
Could it mean a circular mechanism? No.

So it's between 2 and 11.
Sense 2: cycle, rhythm.
Sense 11: partsong, voices follow each other.
The context says "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale". This is a sequence of voices following each other.
Also, the context says "playing tunes on bells". A "round" is a type of tune/song. "they enjoyed singing rounds". So "rounds" is a musical term here.
I will go with Sense 11.


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: high-pitched
Target surface form: highest-pitched
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the <t>highest-pitched</t> bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=high-pitched%3:00:00:: | definition=used of sounds and voices; high in pitch or frequency | synonyms=high
2. sense_key=high-pitched%5:00:00:inclined:01 | definition=set at a sharp or high angle or slant | examples=a high-pitched roof

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

finish_reason: stop

role: assistant

reasoning_content:
The context is about church bells. The "highest-pitched bell to the lowest" refers to the sound frequency of the bells. Bells produce sounds, and "highest-pitched" here clearly refers to the bell with the highest frequency sound, not a roof at a sharp angle.

Sense 1 is about sounds and voices, high in pitch or frequency.
Sense 2 is about a sharp or high angle or slant.

The context clearly uses "highest-pitched" to describe the sound of the bell, so sense 1 is correct.

format: unknown

native_finish_reason: stop

provider: Baidu

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: bell
Target surface form: bell
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched <t>bell</t> to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=bell%1:06:00:: | definition=a hollow device made of metal that makes a ringing sound when struck
2. sense_key=bell%1:06:02:: | definition=a push button at an outer door that gives a ringing or buzzing signal when pushed | synonyms=doorbell, buzzer
3. sense_key=bell%1:11:00:: | definition=the sound of a bell being struck | synonyms=toll | examples=saved by the bell; she heard the distant toll of church bells
4. sense_key=bell%1:28:00:: | definition=(nautical) each of the eight half-hour units of nautical time signaled by strokes of a ship's bell; eight bells signals 4:00, 8:00, or 12:00 o'clock, either a.m. or p.m. | synonyms=ship's bell
5. sense_key=bell%1:25:00:: | definition=the shape of a bell | synonyms=bell shape, campana
6. sense_key=bell%1:18:02:: | definition=a phonetician and father of Alexander Graham Bell (1819-1905) | synonyms=Melville Bell, Alexander Melville Bell
7. sense_key=bell%1:18:01:: | definition=English painter; sister of Virginia Woolf; prominent member of the Bloomsbury Group (1879-1961) | synonyms=Vanessa Bell, Vanessa Stephen
8. sense_key=bell%1:18:00:: | definition=United States inventor (born in Scotland) of the telephone (1847-1922) | synonyms=Alexander Bell, Alexander Graham Bell
9. sense_key=bell%1:06:04:: | definition=a percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned bells that are struck with a hammer; used as an orchestral instrument | synonyms=chime, gong
10. sense_key=bell%1:06:03:: | definition=the flared opening of a tubular device

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:
The context is about church bells, ringing bells, playing tunes on bells, change-ringing, bells weighing more than a ton, bells sounding, highest-pitched bell to the lowest.

The target word is "bell" referring to the physical object that is rung in churches.

Sense 1: "a hollow device made of metal that makes a ringing sound when struck" - This fits church bells perfectly.

Sense 3: "the sound of a bell being struck" - The context refers to the physical objects being rung, weighing more than a ton, etc., not the sound itself.

Sense 9: "a percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned bells that are struck with a hammer; used as an orchestral instrument" - This is more specific to orchestral use, but church bells are also percussion instruments. However, the primary definition of a bell as a hollow metal device fits better.

The target instance is "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest" - this refers to the physical bell itself.

Sense 1 is the best fit.

provider: StreamLake


[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: low
Target surface form: lowest
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the <t>lowest</t> -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=low%3:00:02:: | definition=less than normal in degree or intensity or amount | examples=low prices; the reservoir is low
2. sense_key=low%3:00:01:: | definition=literal meanings; being at or having a relatively small elevation or upward extension | examples=low ceilings; low clouds
3. sense_key=low%5:00:00:soft:04 | definition=very low in volume | synonyms=low-toned | examples=a low murmur; the low-toned murmur of the surf
4. sense_key=low%5:00:00:unrefined:01 | definition=unrefined in character | examples=low comedy
5. sense_key=low%3:00:03:: | definition=used of sounds and voices; low in pitch or frequency | synonyms=low-pitched
6. sense_key=low%5:00:00:contemptible:00 | definition=of the most contemptible kind | synonyms=abject, low-down, miserable, scummy, scurvy | examples=abject cowardice; a low stunt to pull
7. sense_key=low%5:00:00:inferior:01 | definition=low or inferior in station or quality | synonyms=humble, lowly, modest, small | examples=a humble cottage; a lowly parish priest
8. sense_key=low%5:00:00:insufficient:00 | definition=no longer sufficient | synonyms=depleted | examples=supplies are low; our funds are depleted
9. sense_key=low%5:00:00:humble:00 | definition=subdued or brought low in condition or status | synonyms=broken, crushed, humbled, humiliated | examples=brought low; a broken man
10. sense_key=low%5:00:00:dejected:00 | definition=filled with melancholy and despondency | synonyms=gloomy, grim, blue, depressed, dispirited, down | examples=gloomy at the thought of what he had to face; gloomy predictions

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: The context is about church bells, specifically describing them from "the highest-pitched bell to the lowest." The target word "lowest" here refers to the bell with the lowest pitch or frequency. This matches sense 5: "used of sounds and voices; low in pitch or frequency" with synonym "low-pitched."


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

[User]
Target lemma: simple
Target surface form: simple
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a <t>simple</t> descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

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

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

reasoning_content:
The target word is "simple" in the context: "a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells."

The context describes a "simple descending scale" - a scale going from highest-pitched bell to the lowest. This is described as the starting point before the more complex change-ringing begins.

Let me look at the senses:

1. having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved - "a simple problem; simple mechanisms"
2. easy and not involved or complicated - "an elementary problem in statistics; elementary, my dear Watson"
3. apart from anything else; without additions or modifications - "only the bare facts; shocked by the mere idea"
4. exhibiting childlike simplicity and credulity - "childlike trust; dewy-eyed innocence"
5. lacking mental capacity and subtlety - "dim-witted, simple-minded"
6. (botany) of leaf shapes
7. unornamented - "a simple country schoolhouse; her black dress--simple to austerity"

A "simple descending scale" refers to a scale that is straightforward, not complex - just going from high to low in order. This is about having few parts or not being complex/inolved.

Sense 1 seems most appropriate: "having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved" - this fits because a "simple descending scale" is one that is just a straightforward sequence without complexity.

Sense 2 is about being "easy" - but the context isn't about the scale being easy to do, it's about the scale itself being simple in structure.

Sense 7 is about being unornamented - this could potentially apply, but the context seems more about the structural simplicity (just going in order from high to low) rather than lack of ornamentation.

I think sense 1 is the best fit. The "simple descending scale" is simple because it has few parts/is not complex - it's just bells ringing in order from highest to lowest pitch.

Wait, let me reconsider. The distinction between sense 1 and sense 7:

Sense 1: "having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved" - this is about structural simplicity
Sense 7: "unornamented" - this is about lack of decoration/adornment

A descending scale that just goes in order is structurally simple - it's not complex. Sense 1 seems right.

Actually, looking more carefully, the context contrasts this "simple descending scale" with the more complex "change-ringing" where the order is varied. The simple scale is just playing the bells in order from highest to lowest - it's the basic, uncomplicated version. This aligns with sense 1: "having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved."

I'll go with sense 1.


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

[User]
Target lemma: scale
Target surface form: scale
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending <t>scale</t> using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=scale%1:24:03:: | definition=an ordered reference standard | synonyms=scale of measurement, graduated table, ordered series | examples=judging on a scale of 1 to 10
2. sense_key=scale%1:24:00:: | definition=relative magnitude | examples=they entertained on a grand scale
3. sense_key=scale%1:24:01:: | definition=the ratio between the size of something and a representation of it | examples=the scale of the map; the scale of the model
4. sense_key=scale%1:20:00:: | definition=a specialized leaf or bract that protects a bud or catkin | synonyms=scale leaf
5. sense_key=scale%1:17:00:: | definition=a thin flake of dead epidermis shed from the surface of the skin | synonyms=scurf, exfoliation
6. sense_key=scale%1:10:00:: | definition=(music) a series of notes differing in pitch according to a specific scheme (usually within an octave) | synonyms=musical scale
7. sense_key=scale%1:06:02:: | definition=a measuring instrument for weighing; shows amount of mass | synonyms=weighing machine
8. sense_key=scale%1:06:00:: | definition=an indicator having a graduated sequence of marks
9. sense_key=scale%1:06:03:: | definition=a metal sheathing of uniform thickness (such as the shield attached to an artillery piece to protect the gunners) | synonyms=plate, shell
10. sense_key=scale%1:05:00:: | definition=a flattened rigid plate forming part of the body covering of many animals

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:
The context is about church bells, and the sentence mentions "a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells."

This is about a series of notes (bells) in order from highest pitch to lowest. This matches the definition of "a series of notes differing in pitch according to a specific scheme (usually within an octave)" - sense 6, musical scale.

The key indicator is "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale" - this clearly refers to a musical scale, where bells are ordered from highest to lowest pitch.


[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: use
Target surface form: using
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale <t>using</t>, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=use%2:34:01:: | definition=put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose | synonyms=utilize, utilise, apply, employ | examples=use your head!; we only use Spanish at home
2. sense_key=use%2:34:02:: | definition=take or consume (regularly or habitually) | synonyms=habituate | examples=She uses drugs rarely
3. sense_key=use%2:34:00:: | definition=use up, consume fully | synonyms=expend | examples=The legislature expended its time on school questions
4. sense_key=use%2:41:14:: | definition=seek or achieve an end by using to one's advantage | examples=She uses her influential friends to get jobs; The president's wife used her good connections
5. sense_key=use%2:41:04:: | definition=avail oneself to | synonyms=practice, apply | examples=apply a principle; practice a religion
6. sense_key=use%2:41:03:: | definition=habitually do something (use only in the past tense) | examples=She used to call her mother every week but now she calls only occasionally; I used to get sick when I ate in that dining hall

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:
The target word is "using" in the context: "...a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells."

Here, "using" means employing or putting into service (the bells) for a particular purpose (playing the scale).

Sense 1: "put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose" - synonyms: utilize, utilise, apply, employ. Examples: "use your head!"; "we only use Spanish at home"

This fits perfectly. The context describes using (employing) up to 12 bells to create a descending scale.

Let me check the other senses:
- Sense 2: take or consume (regularly or habitually) - doesn't fit
- Sense 3: use up, consume fully - doesn't fit
- Sense 4: seek or achieve an end by using to one's advantage - doesn't fit
- Sense 5: avail oneself to / practice / apply - doesn't fit as well
- Sense 6: habitually do something (past tense) - doesn't fit

Sense 1 is the best choice.


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

[User]
Target lemma: church
Target surface form: churches
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger <t>churches</t>, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=church%1:14:00:: | definition=one of the groups of Christians who have their own beliefs and forms of worship | synonyms=Christian church
2. sense_key=church%1:06:00:: | definition=a place for public (especially Christian) worship | synonyms=church building | examples=the church was empty
3. sense_key=church%1:04:00:: | definition=a service conducted in a house of worship | synonyms=church service | examples=don't be late for church
4. sense_key=church%1:14:01:: | definition=the body of people who attend or belong to a particular local church | examples=our church is hosting a picnic next week

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:
The context mentions "larger churches, as many as 12 bells". The bells are physical objects located within a church building. The phrase "in larger churches" refers to the physical buildings where bells are housed and rung. This corresponds to sense 2: "a place for public (especially Christian) worship" with synonyms "church building" and example "the church was empty".

Sense 1 is about a group of Christians (denomination).
Sense 3 is about a church service.
Sense 4 is about the body of people attending.

The context is clearly talking about the physical buildings that contain bells.


[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: bell
Target surface form: bells
Context:
History, after all, is not on his side. According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 <t>bells</t>. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=bell%1:06:00:: | definition=a hollow device made of metal that makes a ringing sound when struck
2. sense_key=bell%1:06:02:: | definition=a push button at an outer door that gives a ringing or buzzing signal when pushed | synonyms=doorbell, buzzer
3. sense_key=bell%1:11:00:: | definition=the sound of a bell being struck | synonyms=toll | examples=saved by the bell; she heard the distant toll of church bells
4. sense_key=bell%1:28:00:: | definition=(nautical) each of the eight half-hour units of nautical time signaled by strokes of a ship's bell; eight bells signals 4:00, 8:00, or 12:00 o'clock, either a.m. or p.m. | synonyms=ship's bell
5. sense_key=bell%1:25:00:: | definition=the shape of a bell | synonyms=bell shape, campana
6. sense_key=bell%1:18:02:: | definition=a phonetician and father of Alexander Graham Bell (1819-1905) | synonyms=Melville Bell, Alexander Melville Bell
7. sense_key=bell%1:18:01:: | definition=English painter; sister of Virginia Woolf; prominent member of the Bloomsbury Group (1879-1961) | synonyms=Vanessa Bell, Vanessa Stephen
8. sense_key=bell%1:18:00:: | definition=United States inventor (born in Scotland) of the telephone (1847-1922) | synonyms=Alexander Bell, Alexander Graham Bell
9. sense_key=bell%1:06:04:: | definition=a percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned bells that are struck with a hammer; used as an orchestral instrument | synonyms=chime, gong
10. sense_key=bell%1:06:03:: | definition=the flared opening of a tubular device

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:
The context discusses church bells, ringing them, their weight, pitch, and the art of change-ringing. The target word is "bells" referring to the physical objects in churches that are rung.
Sense 1: "a hollow device made of metal that makes a ringing sound when struck" - fits perfectly.
Sense 3: "the sound of a bell being struck" - doesn't fit because it talks about "some bells weigh more than a ton" and "as many as 12 bells".
Sense 9: "a percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned bells that are struck with a hammer; used as an orchestral instrument" - the context specifies church bells rung by ringers, not orchestral instruments struck with a hammer.
Therefore, Sense 1 is the correct choice.


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

[User]
Target lemma: then
Target surface form: Then
Context:
According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. <t>Then</t>, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking. Each variation, or change, can occur only once, the rules state.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=then%4:02:00:: | definition=subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors) | synonyms=so, and so, and then | examples=then he left; go left first, then right
2. sense_key=then%4:02:02:: | definition=in that case or as a consequence | examples=if he didn't take it, then who did?; keep it then if you want to
3. sense_key=then%4:02:01:: | definition=at that time | examples=I was young then; prices were lower back then

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:
The target word "Then" appears in the context: "Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound..."

This is describing a sequence of events: first the bells are started off in "rounds" (a simple descending scale), and then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order. This is a temporal sequence - "subsequently or soon afterward."

Sense 1: "subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)" - examples: "then he left; go left first, then right"
Sense 2: "in that case or as a consequence" - examples: "if he didn't take it, then who did?; keep it then if you want to"
Sense 3: "at that time" - examples: "I was young then; prices were lower back then"

The context shows a sequence: first the bells start in rounds, then at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order. This matches sense 1 - "subsequently or soon afterward."


[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: signal
Target surface form: signal
Context:
According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a <t>signal</t>, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking. Each variation, or change, can occur only once, the rules state.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=signal%1:10:00:: | definition=any nonverbal action or gesture that encodes a message | synonyms=signaling, sign | examples=signals from the boat suddenly stopped
2. sense_key=signal%1:16:00:: | definition=any incitement to action | examples=he awaited the signal to start; the victory was a signal for wild celebration
3. sense_key=signal%1:19:00:: | definition=an electric quantity (voltage or current or field strength) whose modulation represents coded information about the source from which it comes

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:
The target word is "signal" in the context: "Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound..."
Here, "signal" refers to a cue or incitement to start the action of varying the order of the bells.
Sense 1: "any nonverbal action or gesture that encodes a message" - synonyms=signaling, sign
Sense 2: "any incitement to action" - examples="he awaited the signal to start"
Sense 3: "an electric quantity..."

The context says "at a signal, the ringers begin...". This matches "any incitement to action" or "he awaited the signal to start". Sense 2 fits perfectly.
Wait, could it be sense 1? "Any nonverbal action or gesture that encodes a message". If a conductor gives a visual signal, it encodes a message. But the example for sense 2 is literally "he awaited the signal to start", which perfectly aligns with "at a signal, the ringers begin...".
Let's double check WordNet senses for "signal".
Noun senses:
1. signal%1:10:00:: "any nonverbal action or gesture that encodes a message" (signals from the boat suddenly stopped) -> Communication
2. signal%1:16:00:: "any incitement to action" (he awaited the signal to start; the victory was a signal for wild celebration) -> Act
3. signal%1:19:00:: "an electric quantity..."

The phrase "at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order" implies an incitement to action. Sense 2's example "he awaited the signal to start" is a very close match. So Sense 2 is the best fit.

Let's confirm. Is a "signal to start" a nonverbal action encoding a message (Sense 1) or an incitement to action (Sense 2)? WordNet splits these subtly. Sense 1 is in the communication domain (noun.communication / 10), Sense 2 is in the act domain (noun.act / 16). The example "he awaited the signal to start" is specifically listed under Sense 2. "at a signal, the ringers begin..." fits "incitement to action".
Therefore, Sense 2.


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

[User]
Target lemma: ringer
Target surface form: ringers
Context:
According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the <t>ringers</t> begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking. Each variation, or change, can occur only once, the rules state.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=ringer%1:18:02:: | definition=a person who rings church bells (as for summoning the congregation) | synonyms=toller, bell ringer
2. sense_key=ringer%1:18:01:: | definition=a person who is almost identical to another | synonyms=dead ringer, clone
3. sense_key=ringer%1:18:00:: | definition=a contestant entered in a competition under false pretenses
4. sense_key=ringer%1:04:00:: | definition=(horseshoes) the successful throw of a horseshoe or quoit so as to encircle a stake or peg

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: The context is about church bells and change-ringing in England. The "ringers" are people who ring the church bells. Sense 1 is "a person who rings church bells."


[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: begin
Target surface form: begin
Context:
According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers <t>begin</t> varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking. Each variation, or change, can occur only once, the rules state.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=begin%2:30:00:: | definition=take the first step or steps in carrying out an action | synonyms=get down, get, start out, start, set about, set out | examples=We began working at dawn; Who will start?
2. sense_key=begin%2:42:00:: | definition=have a beginning, in a temporal, spatial, or evaluative sense | synonyms=start | examples=The DMZ begins right over the hill; The second movement begins after the Allegro
3. sense_key=begin%2:30:01:: | definition=set in motion, cause to start | synonyms=lead off, start, commence | examples=The U.S. started a war in the Middle East; The Iraqis began hostilities
4. sense_key=begin%2:32:03:: | definition=begin to speak or say;  he began | examples=Now listen, friends,
5. sense_key=begin%2:42:02:: | definition=be the first item or point, constitute the beginning or start, come first in a series | examples=The number `one' begins the sequence; A terrible murder begins the novel
6. sense_key=begin%2:42:04:: | definition=have a beginning, of a temporal event | examples=WW II began in 1939 when Hitler marched into Poland; The company's Asia tour begins next month
7. sense_key=begin%2:42:03:: | definition=have a beginning characterized in some specified way | synonyms=start | examples=The novel begins with a murder; My property begins with the three maple trees
8. sense_key=begin%2:41:04:: | definition=begin an event that is implied and limited by the nature or inherent function of the direct object | synonyms=start | examples=begin a cigar; She started the soup while it was still hot
9. sense_key=begin%2:41:00:: | definition=achieve or accomplish in the least degree, usually used in the negative | examples=This economic measure doesn't even begin to deal with the problem of inflation; You cannot even begin to understand the problem we had to deal with during the war
10. sense_key=begin%2:32:04:: | definition=begin to speak, understand, read, and write a language | examples=She began Russian at an early age; We started French in fourth grade

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:
The target word is "begin" in the context: "Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound..."

Let me analyze the context. The ringers are performing an action - they start varying the order. This is about taking the first step in carrying out an action.

Sense 1: "take the first step or steps in carrying out an action" - examples: "We began working at dawn; Who will start?" This fits well - the ringers begin varying the order (an action).

Sense 3: "set in motion, cause to start" - examples: "The U.S. started a war" - This is about causing something to start, transitive. Here, the ringers begin varying - they are the ones performing the action, not causing something else to start.

The sentence is "the ringers begin varying the order" - this is about the ringers starting to do something (varying), which matches sense 1.

Let me check sense 8: "begin an event that is implied and limited by the nature or inherent function of the direct object" - examples: "begin a cigar; She started the soup" - This doesn't fit well here.

Sense 1 seems most appropriate - the ringers take the first step in carrying out the action of varying the order.

provider: Ambient


[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: vary
Target surface form: varying
Context:
According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin <t>varying</t> the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking. Each variation, or change, can occur only once, the rules state.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=vary%2:30:01:: | definition=become different in some particular way, without permanently losing one's or its former characteristics or essence | synonyms=change, alter | examples=her mood changes in accordance with the weather; The supermarket's selection of vegetables varies according to the season
2. sense_key=vary%2:42:00:: | definition=be at variance with; be out of line with | synonyms=deviate, diverge, depart
3. sense_key=vary%2:42:01:: | definition=be subject to change in accordance with a variable | examples=Prices vary; His moods vary depending on the weather
4. sense_key=vary%2:30:04:: | definition=make something more diverse and varied | synonyms=variegate, motley | examples=Vary the menu

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:
Looking at the context, "varying" is used transitively here—the ringers are actively making the order in which the bells sound more diverse and varied by creating different permutations. The structure "varying the order" closely parallels the example "Vary the menu." The ringers begin with a simple descending scale and then introduce variation, making the sequence more varied while keeping the rhythm steady. This aligns with the definition "make something more diverse and varied."

{"sense_index": 4}

reasoning_content:
The target word is "varying" in the context: "the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking."

Here, "varying" is a transitive verb - the ringers are actively changing/modifying the order of the bells. They are making something different - varying the order.

Sense 1: "become different in some particular way" - this is more about something changing on its own (intransitive)
Sense 2: "be at variance with; be out of line with" - doesn't fit
Sense 3: "be subject to change in accordance with a variable" - intransitive, doesn't fit
Sense 4: "make something more diverse and varied" - this is transitive, about making something more varied. Example: "Vary the menu"

Wait, let me reconsider. The ringers are "varying the order" - they are changing the order in which the bells sound. They're making changes to the order.

Sense 1 says "become different in some particular way" with synonyms "change, alter" - but this seems more intransitive based on the examples ("her mood changes", "selection varies").

Sense 4 says "make something more diverse and varied" with example "Vary the menu" - this is transitive.

The context here is transitive - "varying the order" - the ringers are actively making the order varied/diverse. They're changing it to create variations.

Sense 4 seems like the best fit because:
1. It's transitive (matches "varying the order")
2. The example "Vary the menu" is similar in structure to "varying the order"
3. The definition "make something more diverse and varied" fits - they're making the bell order more varied by creating different sequences

Actually, let me reconsider sense 1 again. The definition says "become different in some particular way, without permanently losing one's or its former characteristics or essence." The synonyms are "change, alter." The examples are intransitive ("her mood changes", "selection varies"), but the synonym "alter" can be transitive.

In this context, "varying the order" means changing/altering the order - making it different while not fundamentally changing what it is (still the same bells, just different order). This could fit sense 1.

But sense 4 specifically says "make something more diverse and varied" which is explicitly transitive and fits the pattern of "varying [object]."

Hmm, but "varying the order" doesn't necessarily mean making it more diverse - it means changing it, altering it. The ringers are changing the order, not necessarily making it more diverse. Though in change-ringing, they are creating variations/changes, which does make it more varied.

Actually, looking at the context more carefully: "the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound" - they are changing the order, making it different. "Each variation, or change, can occur only once" - so they're creating variations.

I think sense 4 is the best fit. The ringers are making the bell order more varied by creating different sequences. The transitive usage matches, and the meaning of "make something more diverse and varied" fits the context of change-ringing where they're creating varied patterns.

Wait, but sense 1 also has "alter" as a synonym, and "alter" is commonly transitive. "Varying the order" could be seen as "altering the order" or "changing the order." The definition of sense 1 - "become different in some particular way, without permanently losing one's or its former characteristics" - the order changes but the bells remain the same.

Hmm, this is tricky. Let me look at the examples more carefully:

Sense 1: "her mood changes in accordance with the weather" - intransitive; "The supermarket's selection of vegetables varies according to the season" - intransitive
Sense 4: "Vary the menu" - transitive

The context is clearly transitive: "varying the order."

But sense 1 includes "alter" as a synonym, and "alter" is often transitive. The WordNet sense might include both transitive and intransitive uses.

Actually, in WordNet, sense 1 is the most general sense of "vary" meaning to change or alter. Sense 4 is more specific - to make something more diverse and varied.

In this context, the ringers are changing the order (making it different) - they're not necessarily making it "more diverse and varied" in the sense of adding variety to a menu. They're changing the sequence of bells.

I think sense 1 is actually the better fit. The ringers are changing/altering the order without permanently losing the former characteristics (the same bells are still being rung). The fact that the examples are intransitive doesn't necessarily exclude transitive use - WordNet senses can cover both.

But wait - sense 4's example "Vary the menu" is very close in structure to "varying the order." And the definition "make something more diverse and varied" could fit - they're making the bell order more diverse by creating different permutations.

Let me reconsider. The key question is: are the ringers (a) changing the order [sense 1], or (b) making the order more diverse and varied [sense 4]?

In change-ringing, the whole point is to create variations - different orders in which the bells sound. They start with a simple descending scale and then vary the order to create different changes/ variations. This is about making something more varied, not just changing it.

"Vary the menu" means to make the menu more diverse - add variety. Similarly, "varying the order" means creating variety in the order.

I'm now leaning towards sense 4.

But actually, "varying the order" simply means "changing the order" - they're altering the sequence. It's not about making it more diverse per se, it's about changing it to create different patterns.

Let me look at this differently. The sentence says "the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm." The word "varying" here is contrasted with "altering" - they vary the order but don't alter the rhythm. This suggests "vary" and "alter" have somewhat different meanings here.

If "vary" = "alter" (sense 1), then the sentence would be saying "they alter the order without altering the rhythm" - which makes sense but uses the synonym in contrast.

If "vary" = "make more diverse and varied" (sense 4), then "they make the order more varied without altering the rhythm" - this also makes sense and creates a clearer contrast.

I think sense 4 is the best fit. The ringers are making the order more diverse/varied by creating different sequences, and this is contrasted with altering the rhythm (which they don't do).

Actually, I need to be more careful. The sentence structure is "varying the order... without altering the steady rhythm." Here "altering" is a different word used to describe what they DON'T do. The contrast is between varying (what they do) and altering (what they don't do). This doesn't necessarily mean vary and alter have different meanings - it's just saying they change one thing but not another.

Let me go back to basics. In the context, "varying the order" means changing the order in which the bells sound. The ringers start with a simple descending scale and then begin to change the order, creating different sequences.

Sense 1: "become different in some particular way" - with synonyms "change, alter" - this is the most general sense of making something different
Sense 4: "make something more diverse and varied" - this is specifically about adding diversity/variety

In change-ringing, the ringers are indeed making the order more diverse and varied - they're creating different permutations and combinations. The whole art is about creating varied patterns.

I'll go with sense 4 - "make something more diverse and varied."

Actually, I just realized I should think about this more carefully. Let me re-read the context.

"Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the order in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking. Each variation, or change, can occur only once, the rules state."

The ringers are varying the order - changing it, making it different. Each variation is called a "change." They're creating variations in the order.

Sense 4: "make something more diverse and varied" - this fits because they're making the order more diverse by creating different variations.

But sense 1: "become different in some particular way, without permanently losing one's or its former characteristics or essence" - this also fits because the order changes but the bells and the rhythm remain the same.

The key difference:
- Sense 1 emphasizes becoming different (change, alter)
- Sense 4 emphasizes making more diverse and varied

In this context, the ringers are both changing the order AND making it more varied. But which sense is the best fit?

The example for sense 4 is "Vary the menu" - meaning to add variety to the menu, to make it more diverse. Similarly, "varying the order" means adding variety to the order, making it more diverse.

I think sense 4 is the best fit. The transitive usage matches, and the meaning of "make something more diverse and varied" fits the context of change-ringing where variety and variation are key.

Final answer: sense 4.


[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: order
Target surface form: order
Context:
According to a nationwide survey taken a year ago, nearly a third of England's church bells are no longer rung on Sundays because there is no one to ring them. It is easy to see why the ancient art is on the ropes. The less complicated version of playing tunes on bells, as do the carillons of continental Europe, is considered by the English to be childish, fit only for foreigners. Change-ringing, a mind-boggling exercise the English invented 380 years ago, requires physical dexterity -- some bells weigh more than a ton -- combined with intense mental concentration. Proper English bells are started off in "rounds, "from the highest-pitched bell to the lowest -- a simple descending scale using, in larger churches, as many as 12 bells. Then, at a signal, the ringers begin varying the <t>order</t> in which the bells sound without altering the steady rhythm of the striking. Each variation, or change, can occur only once, the rules state.

Candidate senses:
1. sense_key=order%1:10:03:: | definition=(often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed | examples=the British ships dropped anchor and waited for orders from London
2. sense_key=order%1:07:01:: | definition=a degree in a continuum of size or quantity | synonyms=order of magnitude | examples=it was on the order of a mile; an explosion of a low order of magnitude
3. sense_key=order%1:26:00:: | definition=established customary state (especially of society) | examples=order ruled in the streets; law and order
4. sense_key=order%1:14:00:: | definition=logical or comprehensible arrangement of separate elements | synonyms=ordering, ordination | examples=we shall consider these questions in the inverse order of their presentation
5. sense_key=order%1:26:02:: | definition=a condition of regular or proper arrangement | synonyms=orderliness | examples=he put his desk in order; the machine is now in working order
6. sense_key=order%1:10:00:: | definition=a legally binding command or decision entered on the court record (as if issued by a court or judge) | synonyms=decree, edict, fiat, rescript | examples=a friend in New Mexico said that the order caused no trouble out there
7. sense_key=order%1:10:01:: | definition=a commercial document used to request someone to supply something in return for payment and providing specifications and quantities | synonyms=purchase order | examples=IBM received an order for a hundred computers
8. sense_key=order%1:14:02:: | definition=a formal association of people with similar interests | synonyms=club, social club, society, guild, gild, lodge | examples=he joined a golf club; they formed a small lunch society
9. sense_key=order%1:10:02:: | definition=a body of rules followed by an assembly | synonyms=rules of order, parliamentary law, parliamentary procedure
10. sense_key=order%1:26:01:: | definition=(usually plural) the status or rank or office of a Christian clergyman in an ecclesiastical hierarchy | synonyms=Holy Order | examples=theologians still disagree over whether `bishop' should or should not be a separate Order
11. sense_key=order%1:14:03:: | definition=a group of person living under a religious rule | synonyms=monastic order | examples=the order of Saint Benedict
12. sense_key=order%1:14:01:: | definition=(biology) taxonomic group containing one or more families
13. sense_key=order%1:10:04:: | definition=a request for something to be made, supplied, or served | examples=I gave the waiter my order; the company's products were in such demand that they got more orders than their call center could handle
14. sense_key=order%1:07:00:: | definition=(architecture) one of original three styles of Greek architecture distinguished by the type of column and entablature used or a style developed from the original three by the Romans
15. sense_key=order%1:04:00:: | definition=the act of putting things in a sequential arrangement | synonyms=ordering | examples=there were mistakes in the ordering of items on the list

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: The context describes "varying the order in which the bells sound". This is about the arrangement or sequence of the bells. Sense 4 is "logical or comprehensible arrangement of separate elements" with examples "we shall consider these questions in the inverse order of their presentation". This fits perfectly - the order in which the bells sound refers to the arrangement/sequence of the separate elements (the bells).