[User]
Which numbered sense of "severe" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: This is indeed what the data indicate, particularly in the case of the House. The Democratic House attendance rate has not exceeded the Republican House attendance rate since 1959. Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more <t>severe</t>. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level.

Senses:
1. definition=intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality | synonyms=terrible, wicked | examples=severe pain; a severe case of flu
2. definition=very strong or vigorous | synonyms=hard, knockout | examples=strong winds; a hard left to the chin
3. definition=severely simple | synonyms=austere, stark, stern | examples=a stark interior
4. definition=unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment; - H.G.Wells | synonyms=spartan | examples=a parent severe to the pitch of hostility; a hefty six-footer with a rather severe mien
5. definition=causing fear or anxiety by threatening great harm | synonyms=dangerous, grave, grievous, serious, life-threatening | examples=a dangerous operation; a grave situation
6. definition=very bad in degree or extent | examples=a severe worldwide depression; the house suffered severe damage

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more <t>severe</t>."
    *   Target word: "severe"
    *   Contextual meaning: The sentence refers to a "prisoner's sentence" being "more severe." In this context, "severe" describes a punishment or legal sentence.

    *   Sense 1: intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality (e.g., severe pain, severe flu).
    *   Sense 2: very strong or vigorous (e.g., strong winds).
    *   Sense 3: severely simple (e.g., austere, stark).
    *   Sense 4: unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment (e.g., a parent severe to the pitch of hostility).
    *   Sense 5: causing fear or anxiety by threatening great harm (e.g., dangerous operation, grave situation).
    *   Sense 6: very bad in degree or extent (e.g., severe worldwide depression, severe damage).

    *   A "severe sentence" usually means a punishment that is harsh, strict, or extreme in its degree of penalty.
    *   Looking at the senses again:
        *   Sense 1 (bad/unpleasant) is close, but usually refers to physical or emotional pain/illness.
        *   Sense 4 (unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment) fits the idea of a "harsh" sentence given by a judge.
        *   Sense 6 (very bad in degree or extent) is general.

    *Wait*, let me re-read the context. "when the prisoner's sentence is more severe."
    Is "prisoner's sentence" a metaphor here?
    Looking at the preceding sentence: "...the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates... turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state..."
    The "prisoner's sentence" seems to be a metaphor for the "tax burden."
    If the "tax burden" (the "sentence") is more "severe," it means it is more harsh, burdensome, or extreme.

    Let's re-evaluate the senses:
    1. Intensely/extremely bad or unpleasant (pain, flu).
    2. Strong/vigorous (winds).
    3. Simple/austere.
    4. Unsparing/uncompromising in discipline or judgment.
    5. Causing fear/anxiety (dangerous).
    6. Very bad in degree or extent (depression, damage).

    If "severe" describes a "sentence" (punishment), it usually means harsh or strict.
    Sense 4: "unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment." This fits the concept of a harsh legal sentence perfectly.

    Let's check if Sense 6 fits better: "very bad in degree or extent." A severe depression, severe damage. A severe sentence is "bad in degree" for the prisoner.

    Let's look at common dictionary definitions for "severe sentence":
    Merriam-Webster: "strict or harsh" (similar to Sense 4).
    Oxford: "(of something bad or unpleasant) very great; intense" (similar to Sense 1 or 6).

    Wait, let's look at the provided senses again.
    Sense 1: intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality.
    Sense 4: unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment.
    Sense 6: very bad in degree or extent.

    If the "sentence" is a legal one, "unsparing and uncompromising in judgment" (Sense 4) is a very strong fit.
    However, if "sentence" is used metaphorically for "tax burden," the "severity" refers to the *extent* or *degree* of the burden.

    Let's re-read the metaphor: "how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state... Put more simply... when the prisoner's sentence is more severe."
    The "prisoner" is the state/taxpayer, and the "sentence" is the tax burden.
    So, "severe" here means "onerous," "harsh," or "extreme in degree."

    Comparing Sense 1, 4, and 6 again:
    Sense 1: "intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality" (examples: pain, flu).
    Sense 4: "unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment" (examples: parent, mien).
    Sense 6: "very bad in degree or extent" (examples: depression, damage).

    A "severe sentence" (legal) is typically described as harsh/strict. Sense 4 mentions "uncompromising in... judgment."
    But a "severe tax burden" (which is what the metaphor refers to) is "very bad in degree or extent" (Sense 6).

    Let's think about "severe sentence" specifically. If you have a "severe sentence," is it "uncompromising in judgment" (Sense 4) or "very bad in degree" (Sense 6)?
    Actually, Sense 4 describes the *person* or the *manner* of judgment ("a parent severe", "a severe mien"). It doesn't typically describe the *result* (the sentence itself), although it can.
    Sense 6 describes the *extent* of something bad ("severe depression", "severe damage"). A "severe sentence" is a punishment that is very bad in its extent (e.g., 20 years instead of 5).

    Let's double-check Sense 1: "intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality." This is very similar to Sense 6.

    Let's look at the examples for Sense 6: "severe worldwide depression", "house suffered severe damage". These are things that are "bad in degree or extent." A "severe sentence" fits this pattern.

    Let's look at Sense 4 again: "unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment". Example: "a parent severe to the pitch of hostility". This describes a *person's character* or *behavior*.

    Therefore, Sense 6 (very bad in degree or extent) is the most likely fit for "severe sentence" (meaning a harsh punishment).

    Wait, let me re-read Sense 1: "intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality".
    And Sense 6: "very bad in degree or extent".
    The difference is subtle. Sense 1 examples are "pain" and "flu" (sensations/conditions). Sense 6 examples are "depression" and "damage" (situations/outcomes). A "sentence" (punishment) is more like a situation/outcome.

    Let's re-examine the metaphor: "how onerous the federal government's tax burden is... when the prisoner's sentence is more severe."
    Onerous = burdensome.
    Severe = very bad in degree or extent.

    Sense 6 seems the most appropriate.

    *Self-Correction/Double Check:*
    Could it be Sense 4? "unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment".
    If the "sentence" is the *act* of judgment, maybe. But the "sentence" is the *result* of the judgment.
    Could it be Sense 1? "intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality".
    "Severe pain" is an intense feeling. A "severe sentence" is an intense punishment.

    Let's look at the provided senses again.
    1. intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality | synonyms=terrible, wicked | examples=severe pain; a severe case of flu
    6. very bad in degree or extent | examples=a severe worldwide depression; the house suffered severe damage

    A "severe sentence" is more like "severe damage" or "severe depression" (Sense 6) than "severe pain" or "severe flu" (Sense 1).

    Wait, let me search for "severe sentence" in a dictionary.
    Cambridge Dictionary: "severe (adj): (of a punishment) very strict."
    Oxford Dictionary: "severe (adj): (of something bad or unpleasant) very great; intense."

    If "strict" is the meaning, does that fit any of the senses?
    Sense 4: "unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment". This is very close to "strict."

    Let's re-read Sense 4: "unsparing and uncompromising in discipline or judgment; - H.G.Wells | synonyms=spartan | examples=a parent severe to the pitch of hostility; a hefty six-footer with a rather severe mien".
    This sense focuses on the *person* or the *attitude*.

    Let's re-read Sense 6: "very bad in degree or extent | examples=a severe worldwide depression; the house suffered severe damage".
    A "severe sentence" is a punishment that is very bad in its extent (e.g., very long).

    Let's think about the metaphor again. "Onerous tax burden" -> "severe sentence".
    Onerous means "burdensome."
    A "severe sentence" in this context means a "burdensome sentence."
    This points toward the *degree* of the burden.

    Comparing Sense 1 and Sense 6 again:
    Sense 1: "intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality"
    Sense 6: "very bad in degree or extent"

    These are so similar. Let's look at the examples again.
    Sense 1: pain, flu.
    Sense 6: depression, damage.

    A "sentence" (punishment) is more like "damage" or "depression" (a state or a result) than "pain" or "flu" (a sensation or a disease).

    Let's consider if there's any other sense.
    Sense 5: "causing fear or anxiety by threatening great harm" (dangerous, grave). A severe sentence *causes* fear, but the sentence *itself* is not "dangerous" in the same way an operation is.

    Final check:
    Context: "when the prisoner's sentence is more severe" (referring to a tax burden).
    Meaning: The punishment/burden is more extreme/harsh.
    Sense 6: "very bad in degree or extent".
    This fits best.


attempt_kind: initial

status: success

[User]
Which numbered sense of "appear" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: The Democratic House attendance rate has not exceeded the Republican House attendance rate since 1959. Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting <t>appears</t> to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the reverse.

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

finish_reason: stop

role: assistant

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "Moreover, ticket splitting <t>appears</t> to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level."
    *   Target word: "appears"

    *   Sense 1: give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect (look, seem). Example: "She seems to be sleeping."
    *   Sense 2: come into sight or view. Example: "He suddenly appeared at the wedding."
    *   Sense 3: be issued or published. Example: "Did your latest book appear yet?"
    *   Sense 4: seem to be true, probable, or apparent. Example: "It seems that he is very gifted."
    *   Sense 5: come into being or existence. Example: "Homo sapiens appeared millions of years ago."
    *   Sense 6: appear as a character on stage. Example: "Gielgud appears briefly in this movie."
    *   Sense 7: present oneself formally (court). Example: "He had to appear in court."

    *   The sentence says: "ticket splitting <t>appears</t> to take the same peculiar pattern..."
    *   This means that based on the evidence/observation, it *seems* that ticket splitting follows a certain pattern.
    *   It's not about coming into sight (Sense 2), being published (Sense 3), coming into existence (Sense 5), acting in a play (Sense 6), or going to court (Sense 7).
    *   It's between Sense 1 and Sense 4.
    *   Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect" (often used for physical appearance or a general impression).
    *   Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent" (often used for conclusions drawn from evidence).

    *   "Ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern..."
    *   This is a claim based on data/observation. The author is saying it *seems to be true* that this pattern exists.
    *   Comparing Sense 1 ("She seems to be sleeping") and Sense 4 ("It seems that he is very gifted").
    *   Actually, in many dictionaries, "appear to be" and "seem to be" are very close. Let's look closer at the provided definitions.
    *   Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect"
    *   Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent"
    *   The statement "ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" is an observation about a trend/fact, making it "seem to be true" or "apparent" based on the evidence.

    *   Sense 1 is often more about the *way* something looks (outward aspect).
    *   Sense 4 is more about the *likelihood* or *truth* of a situation based on evidence.
    *   In the context of a political science analysis, the author is stating a conclusion that seems to be supported by the data. This aligns better with Sense 4.

    *Wait*, let me re-read Sense 1 and Sense 4 again.
    Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect | synonyms=look, seem | examples=She seems to be sleeping; This appears to be a very difficult problem"
    Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent | synonyms=seem | examples=It seems that he is very gifted; It appears that the weather in California is very bad"

    Actually, "This appears to be a very difficult problem" (Sense 1) is very similar to "ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern".

    Let's look at the structure:
    Sense 1: "appears to be [adjective/noun phrase]"
    Sense 4: "It appears that [clause]"

    The context is: "ticket splitting <t>appears</t> to take the same peculiar pattern..."
    This follows the structure "X appears to [verb]".

    Let's re-evaluate Sense 1 and Sense 4.
    Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect"
    Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent"

    If I say "He appears to be tired," is that Sense 1 or Sense 4?
    If I say "It appears that he is tired," is that Sense 1 or Sense 4?

    Looking at the examples:
    Sense 1: "She seems to be sleeping" (outward impression).
    Sense 4: "It seems that he is very gifted" (conclusion based on evidence).

    "Ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" is a conclusion based on evidence.

    Wait, let me look at the examples again.
    Sense 1: "This appears to be a very difficult problem."
    Sense 4: "It appears that the weather in California is very bad."

    The difference seems to be the grammatical construction (X appears to be Y vs It appears that X is Y), but the meaning is almost identical. However, "ticket splitting appears to take..." is "X appears to [verb]".

    Let's check if "appear to [verb]" fits Sense 1 or Sense 4 better.
    Sense 1: "give a certain impression"
    Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent"

    In the context of a research paper, "appears to take the same pattern" means "it seems to be true that it takes the same pattern."

    Let's re-examine Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect".
    Does "ticket splitting" have an "outward aspect"? Not really. It's a behavioral pattern.
    Does it "seem to be true" that it takes that pattern? Yes.

    Therefore, Sense 4 is the most accurate.

    *Self-Correction:* Let me double-check Sense 1 again. "This appears to be a very difficult problem." This is also a conclusion based on evidence, not necessarily an "outward aspect" like a physical appearance. This makes the distinction between 1 and 4 very thin.

    Let's look at the synonyms:
    Sense 1: look, seem
    Sense 4: seem

    Let's look at the examples again:
    Sense 1: "She seems to be sleeping" (Observation of outward state)
    Sense 4: "It seems that he is very gifted" (Inference about a quality)

    "Ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" is an inference about a quality/behavior.

    Let's try to see if there's any other sense.
    2 (sight), 3 (published), 5 (existence), 6 (stage), 7 (court). None of these fit.

    So it's 1 or 4.
    If Sense 1 is "outward aspect" and Sense 4 is "seem to be true/probable", the analysis of ticket splitting is definitely about whether a certain pattern is *true* or *probable* based on the data.

    Let's re-read Sense 1's example: "This appears to be a very difficult problem."
    Is that an "outward aspect" or "seem to be true"? It's "seem to be true".
    This suggests the distinction between 1 and 4 in this specific list might be more about the grammatical structure (X appears to be... vs It appears that...).

    Wait, let's look at the examples again.
    Sense 1: "She seems to be sleeping" (X seems to be Y)
    Sense 4: "It seems that he is very gifted" (It seems that X is Y)

    The context is: "ticket splitting <t>appears</t> to take the same peculiar pattern" (X appears to [verb]).
    This matches the structure of Sense 1 ("She seems to be sleeping").

    Let's re-read the definitions one more time.
    Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect"
    Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent"

    If the distinction is "outward aspect" (1) vs "true/probable" (4), then "ticket splitting appears to take the same pattern" is definitely Sense 4.

    Let's search for these definitions online (they look like they might be from WordNet).
    WordNet "appear":
    1. give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect (seem)
    2. come into sight or view
    3. be issued or published
    4. seem to be true, probable, or apparent (seem)
    5. come into being or existence
    6. appear as a character on stage
    7. present oneself formally

    In WordNet, the difference between 1 and 4 is often subtle.
    Sense 1: "She appears to be tired" (She looks tired).
    Sense 4: "It appears that the weather is bad" (It seems likely that the weather is bad).

    "Ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" means "It seems likely/true that ticket splitting takes the same peculiar pattern."

    Let's compare:
    "Ticket splitting *looks* to take the same pattern" (Sense 1 - less common)
    "Ticket splitting *seems* to take the same pattern" (Sense 1 or 4)

    Actually, "appears to [verb]" is very common for Sense 4 as well.
    Example: "The evidence appears to suggest that..." (This is Sense 4).

    Let's look at the examples provided in the prompt again.
    Sense 1: "This appears to be a very difficult problem"
    Sense 4: "It appears that the weather in California is very bad"

    If "This appears to be a very difficult problem" is Sense 1, then "ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" (which has the same structure: [Subject] appears to [be/verb] [Complement]) would also be Sense 1.

    Wait, "This appears to be a very difficult problem" is almost identical in meaning to "It appears that this is a very difficult problem."

    Let's think about "outward aspect" (Sense 1) vs "true, probable, or apparent" (Sense 4).
    Is a "difficult problem" an outward aspect? No.
    Is "ticket splitting taking a pattern" an outward aspect? No.

    This is confusing. Let's re-examine the examples.
    Sense 1: "She seems to be sleeping" (Outward appearance)
    Sense 4: "It seems that he is very gifted" (Inference)

    "Ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" is an inference based on the data presented in the text.

    Let's try to see if "appears to [verb]" is more common in Sense 1 or Sense 4.
    Sense 1: "He appears to be happy."
    Sense 4: "It appears to be the case that..." or "He appears to have been mistaken."

    Actually, "ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" is very similar to "It appears that ticket splitting takes the same peculiar pattern."

    Let's look at the examples again.
    Sense 1: "This appears to be a very difficult problem"
    Sense 4: "It appears that the weather in California is very bad"

    If the prompt's own example "This appears to be a very difficult problem" is Sense 1, then "ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" must be Sense 1 because they share the same structure and the same type of "inference" (not a physical outward appearance).

    Wait, let me re-read Sense 1 again: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect".
    A "difficult problem" doesn't have an "outward aspect". But the example says it's Sense 1.
    This means Sense 1 is broader than just physical appearance; it includes "giving a certain impression".

    "Ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern" = "Ticket splitting gives the impression of taking the same peculiar pattern."

    Let's double-check Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent".
    "It appears that the weather in California is very bad."

    The difference between "This appears to be a very difficult problem" (Sense 1) and "It appears that the weather in California is very bad" (Sense 4) is almost entirely the grammatical structure.
    Sense 1: [Subject] + appear + [to be/to verb]
    Sense 4: It + appear + [that clause]

    Let's test this hypothesis.
    Context: "ticket splitting <t>appears</t> to take the same peculiar pattern"
    Structure: [Subject] + appear + [to verb]
    This matches the structure of Sense 1's examples ("She seems to be sleeping", "This appears to be a very difficult problem").

    Let's check Sense 4's examples:
    "It seems that he is very gifted"
    "It appears that the weather in California is very bad"
    Both are "It + appear + that clause".

    Therefore, based on the provided examples, the correct sense is 1.

currency: USD

source: unavailable


[User]
Which numbered sense of "take" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: The Democratic House attendance rate has not exceeded the Republican House attendance rate since 1959. Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to <t>take</t> the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the reverse.

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "Moreover, ticket splitting appears to <t>take</t> the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level."
    *   Target word: "take"
    *   Surrounding phrase: "take the same peculiar pattern"

    *   The sentence says "ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern".
    *   This means ticket splitting *assumes* or *adopts* a specific pattern.
    *   It's describing the form or characteristic that "ticket splitting" exhibits.

    *   1: carry out (take action) - No.
    *   2: require time/space (took three hours) - No.
    *   3: take somebody somewhere (lead, direct) - No.
    *   4: get into one's hands (take a cookie) - No.
    *   5: take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect (assume, acquire, adopt) - Example: "His voice took on a sad tone; The story took a new turn". This matches "take the same peculiar pattern".
    *   6: interpret something (read) - No.
    *   7: take something with oneself (bring) - No.
    *   8: take into possession (take an orphan) - No.
    *   9: travel by means of (take the bus) - No.
    *   10: pick out, select (take any one of these cards) - No.
    *   11: receive willingly (accept) - No.
    *   12: assume positions or roles (took the job) - No.
    *   13: take into consideration (take the case of China) - No.
    *   14: require as useful/proper (takes nerve) - No.
    *   15: experience or feel (take a test) - No.
    *   16: make a film (take a scene) - No.
    *   17: remove something (remove a threat) - No.
    *   18: consume regularly (take sugar) - No.
    *   19: accept or undergo unwillingly (took a pay cut) - No.
    *   20: make use of (take a risk) - No.
    *   21: take by force (took the Baltic Republics) - No.
    *   22: occupy or take on (assume the lotus position) - This is similar to 5, but 5 specifically mentions "form, attribute, or aspect" and "take on a certain form". "Pattern" is a form or aspect. Let's re-examine 22. 22 says "occupy or take on" and gives the example "assumes the lotus position" (a physical posture).
    *   23: admit into a group (accept students) - No.
    *   24: ascertain by measuring (take a pulse) - No.
    *   25: be a student of (take a subject) - No.
    *   26: undesirable consequence (took its toll) - No.
    *   27: head into a direction (took to the hills) - No.
    *   28: point or cause to go (take aim) - No.
    *   29: be seized or affected (take sick) - No.
    *   30: have with oneself (take an umbrella) - No.
    *   31: engage for service (rent a car) - No.
    *   32: receive or obtain regularly (take the Times) - No.
    *   33: buy, select (take a pound of sausage) - No.
    *   34: get into a position of safety (take shelter) - No.
    *   35: have sex with - No.
    *   36: lay claim to (took credit) - No.
    *   37: be designed to hold (take the dye) - No.
    *   38: be capable of holding (box won't take all items) - No.
    *   39: develop a habit (took to visiting bars) - No.
    *   40: proceed along in a vehicle (drive the turnpike) - No.
    *   41: obtain by winning (winner takes all) - No.
    *   42: be stricken by an illness (got AIDS) - No.

    *   Sense 5: "take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect | synonyms=assume, acquire, adopt, take on | examples=His voice took on a sad tone; The story took a new turn"
    *   Sense 22: "occupy or take on | synonyms=assume, strike, take up | examples=He assumes the lotus position; She took her seat on the stage"

    "Ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern..."
    This means ticket splitting *assumes* a pattern. A pattern is a form or aspect. Sense 5 fits perfectly. Sense 22 is more about physical positions or occupying a space.

    *   Context: "ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern"
    *   Sense 5: "take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect"
    *   Match: Yes.


[User]
Which numbered sense of "same" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: The Democratic House attendance rate has not exceeded the Republican House attendance rate since 1959. Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the <t>same</t> peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the reverse.

Senses:
1. definition=same in identity | examples=the same man I saw yesterday; never wore the same dress twice
2. definition=closely similar or comparable in kind or quality or quantity or degree | examples=curtains the same color as the walls; two girls of the same age
3. definition=equal in amount or value | synonyms=like | examples=like amounts; equivalent amounts
4. definition=unchanged in character or nature | examples=the village stayed the same; his attitude is the same as ever

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the <t>same</t> peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level."
    *   Target word: "same"
    *   Meaning in context: The pattern of ticket splitting at the state level is similar/comparable to the pattern at the federal level.

    *   Sense 1: "same in identity" (e.g., the same man). This refers to a single unique entity. (Not applicable here; state and federal levels are different entities).
    *   Sense 2: "closely similar or comparable in kind or quality or quantity or degree" (e.g., curtains the same color). This refers to similarity between two or more things. (Fits well: the *pattern* at the state level is similar to the *pattern* at the federal level).
    *   Sense 3: "equal in amount or value" (e.g., like amounts). This refers to numerical equality. (Not applicable here; it's about a "pattern," not a quantity).
    *   Sense 4: "unchanged in character or nature" (e.g., the village stayed the same). This refers to stability over time. (Not applicable here; it's comparing two different levels of government, not one thing over time).

    *   The sentence compares a "peculiar pattern" at the state level to a "peculiar pattern" at the federal level.
    *   It's not the *exact same* pattern (identity), but a *similar* pattern (comparable in kind/quality).
    *   Therefore, Sense 2 is the most accurate.


[User]
Which numbered sense of "level" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: The Democratic House attendance rate has not exceeded the Republican House attendance rate since 1959. Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government <t>level</t> as it does at the federal level. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the reverse.

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government <t>level</t> as it does at the federal level."
    *   Target word: "level"
    *   Usage: "state government level", "federal level".

    *   Sense 1: Position on a scale of intensity/amount/quality (degree, grade).
    *   Sense 2: Relative position or degree of value in a graded group (grade, tier).
    *   Sense 3: Specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or process (degree, stage, point).
    *   Sense 4: Height above ground.
    *   Sense 5: Spirit level (tool).
    *   Sense 6: Flat surface (horizontal).
    *   Sense 7: Abstract place conceived as having depth (layer, stratum).
    *   Sense 8: Floor/storey of a building.

    *   The text compares "state government level" and "federal level".
    *   This refers to different tiers or layers of government (federal vs. state).
    *   Is it a "position on a scale of intensity" (Sense 1)? No.
    *   Is it a "relative position or degree of value in a graded group" (Sense 2)? Maybe, but "graded group" usually implies quality or value (like lumber).
    *   Is it a "specific identifiable position in a continuum or series" (Sense 3)? Maybe, but "continuum" doesn't quite fit government structures.
    *   Is it an "abstract place usually conceived as having depth" (Sense 7)? "Layer, stratum". Government levels are often described as layers or strata of administration.

    *   Sense 2: "relative position or degree of value in a graded group".
    *   Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".

    Let's look at Sense 7 again: "a good actor communicates on several levels; a simile has at least two layers of meaning". This refers to levels of meaning or abstraction.
    Let's look at Sense 2 again: "relative position or degree of value in a graded group".

    Wait, let's re-evaluate. "State government level" and "federal level" are tiers of government.
    Is there a better sense?
    Sense 1: degree/grade.
    Sense 2: grade/tier.
    Sense 3: degree/stage/point.

    Actually, looking at common dictionary definitions for "level" in "government level":
    It often means a specific tier or rank in a hierarchy.
    Sense 2 mentions "tier".
    Sense 7 mentions "layer, stratum".

    Let's compare:
    "State government level" vs "Federal government level".
    These are different tiers of administration.
    Sense 2: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier".
    Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".

    Usually, "levels of government" are seen as tiers (Sense 2) or layers (Sense 7).
    However, Sense 7's examples ("communicates on several levels", "layers of meaning") are more about depth of meaning/abstraction.
    Sense 2's examples ("lumber of the highest grade") are about quality/grade.

    Let's look at Sense 3: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process".

    Let's reconsider Sense 7. "Layer, stratum". In sociology or political science, "levels of government" are often called "strata" or "layers".

    Wait, let's look at the options again.
    1. intensity/amount/quality
    2. relative position/degree of value in a graded group (tier)
    3. position in a continuum/series/process
    4. height
    5. tool
    6. flat surface
    7. abstract place/depth (layer, stratum)
    8. floor

    If I have to choose between 2 and 7:
    Sense 2: "relative position or degree of value in a graded group".
    Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth".

    "State government level" isn't really about "value" (Sense 2).
    Is it an "abstract place" (Sense 7)? Yes, the "state level" is an abstract way of categorizing the scope of government.

    Let's check other sources for "level of government".
    Merriam-Webster:
    1. a horizontal plane...
    2. a height...
    3. a position on a real or imaginary scale...
    4. a stratum...

    Oxford:
    1. a horizontal plane...
    2. a height...
    3. a position on a scale...
    4. a layer or stratum.

    Looking at the provided senses:
    Sense 7 is "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    Sense 2 is "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier".

    "State level" and "federal level" are tiers/layers of government.
    Between "tier" (Sense 2) and "layer/stratum" (Sense 7), "layer/stratum" often fits the organizational structure of government better in these types of NLP datasets (like WordNet).

    Let's double-check Sense 2: "relative position or degree of value in a graded group". "Value" is the key word here. State and federal governments aren't necessarily "graded" by value.

    Let's double-check Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    Example: "a good actor communicates on several levels".
    This fits the idea of different "levels" of analysis or administration.

    Wait, let me look at Sense 3 again: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process".
    Government levels aren't really a "process".

    Let's re-examine Sense 2: "relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier".
    If "tier" is a synonym, "tier of government" is a very common phrase.

    Let's compare "tier" (Sense 2) and "stratum" (Sense 7).
    A "tier" is a level in a hierarchy.
    A "stratum" is a layer.

    In the context of "state government level" and "federal level", these are tiers in a political hierarchy.

    Wait, let me look at the examples for Sense 7 again: "a good actor communicates on several levels; a simile has at least two layers of meaning". These are very abstract.
    Sense 2: "lumber of the highest grade". This is about quality.

    Is there any other sense?
    Sense 1: "a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality".

    Let's think about "level" in "federal level".
    It means the scope or the administrative tier.
    If I search for "level" in WordNet (which these senses seem to be based on):
    - level (n):
        1. a horizontal plane...
        2. a height...
        3. a position on a real or imaginary scale...
        4. a stratum...

    Looking at the provided senses again:
    Sense 1: position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality.
    Sense 2: relative position or degree of value in a graded group.
    Sense 3: specific identifiable position in a continuum or series.
    Sense 7: abstract place usually conceived as having depth (layer, stratum).

    "State level" and "federal level" are different strata of government.
    Let's try to see if "level" as in "government level" fits Sense 7 better.
    "The state government level" = the stratum of state government.
    "The federal government level" = the stratum of federal government.

    Let's check Sense 2 again: "relative position or degree of value in a graded group".
    Is the government a "graded group"? Not really.

    Let's check Sense 3 again: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series".
    Is the government a "continuum or series"? Not really.

    Let's check Sense 1 again: "a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality".
    No.

    So Sense 7 seems the most plausible, as it mentions "layer, stratum".

    Wait, let me search for "level of government" and "stratum".
    "The different strata of government" is used, but "tiers of government" is more common.
    However, Sense 2's definition "degree of value in a graded group" is very specific to quality/value (like lumber).

    Let's re-read Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    This fits the "level" in "on a professional level", "on a personal level", "at the state level". These are all abstract "levels" or "layers" of consideration.

    Let's double-check Sense 2 again. "relative position or degree of value in a graded group".
    If you have a "three-tier" system, those are levels. But "degree of value" doesn't fit.

    Let's double-check Sense 3. "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series".
    Could "federal, state, local" be a series? Yes.

    Let's compare Sense 3 and Sense 7.
    Sense 3: "at what stage are the social sciences?" (stage/point)
    Sense 7: "a good actor communicates on several levels" (layer/stratum)

    "At the state government level" is more like "on a certain level" (Sense 7) than "at a certain stage" (Sense 3).

    Let's look at the phrase "at the state government level".
    This is similar to "at the local level", "at the national level".
    These are often categorized as "levels of analysis" or "levels of government".
    In many linguistic datasets, this usage of "level" (meaning a layer or stratum of a system) is mapped to the "stratum/layer" sense.

    Let's re-verify Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum | examples=a good actor communicates on several levels; a simile has at least two layers of meaning".
    This matches the "abstract place" part. "The state government level" is an abstract place/category.

    Let's re-verify Sense 2: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier | examples=lumber of the highest grade".
    This is more about quality/rank.

    Let's re-verify Sense 3: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process | synonyms=degree, stage, point | examples=a remarkable degree of frankness; at what stage are the social sciences?".
    This is more about progress or a point in a sequence.

    Therefore, Sense 7 is the most likely fit.


[User]
Which numbered sense of "federal" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: The Democratic House attendance rate has not exceeded the Republican House attendance rate since 1959. Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the <t>federal</t> level. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the reverse.

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the <t>federal</t> level."
    *   The sentence compares "state government level" with "federal level".
    *   In the US context (which is clearly established by mentions of "Democratic House", "Republican House", "Senate", "GOP"), "federal" refers to the national government as opposed to the state governments.

    *   Sense 1: "national; especially in reference to the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units" (Examples: FBI, federal courts).
    *   Sense 2: "of or relating to the central government of a federation" (Example: federal district).
    *   Sense 3: "being of or having to do with the northern United States and those loyal to the Union during the American Civil War" (Example: Federal forces).
    *   Sense 4: "characterized by or constituting a form of government in which power is divided between one central and several regional authorities" (Example: a federal system).

    *   The context contrasts "state government level" with "federal level".
    *   Sense 1 specifically mentions "national; especially in reference to the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units". This fits perfectly.
    *   Sense 2 is similar but more general ("central government of a federation").
    *   Sense 3 is historical (Civil War).
    *   Sense 4 describes the *system* of government (federalism), not the level of government.

    *   The text is discussing US politics (House, Senate, GOP, Democrats).
    *   "Federal level" here means the national level of government in the US.
    *   Sense 1 is the most precise fit for "national; especially in reference to the government of the United States as distinct from that of its member units".


[User]
Which numbered sense of "level" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: The Democratic House attendance rate has not exceeded the Republican House attendance rate since 1959. Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal <t>level</t>. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the reverse.

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal <t>level</t>."
    *   Target word: "level"
    *   Surrounding phrase: "federal level" (contrasted with "state government level").

    *   Sense 1: Position on a scale of intensity/amount/quality (degree, grade).
    *   Sense 2: Relative position or degree of value in a graded group (grade, tier).
    *   Sense 3: Specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or process (degree, stage, point).
    *   Sense 4: Height above ground.
    *   Sense 5: Tool for establishing horizontal (spirit level).
    *   Sense 6: Flat surface at right angles to a plumb line.
    *   Sense 7: An abstract place usually conceived as having depth (layer, stratum).
    *   Sense 8: A structure consisting of a room or set of rooms (floor, storey).

    *   The text compares "state government level" and "federal level".
    *   This refers to different tiers or layers of government (state vs. federal).
    *   Is it a "position on a scale of intensity" (Sense 1)? No.
    *   Is it a "relative position or degree of value in a graded group" (Sense 2)? Maybe, but "graded group" usually implies quality or value (like lumber).
    *   Is it a "specific identifiable position in a continuum or series" (Sense 3)? Not really a continuum or process.
    *   Is it "height above ground" (Sense 4)? No.
    *   Is it a "spirit level" (Sense 5)? No.
    *   Is it a "flat surface" (Sense 6)? No.
    *   Is it "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth" (Sense 7)? "Layer, stratum". Government levels (federal, state, local) are often described as layers or strata of administration.
    *   Is it a "floor/storey" (Sense 8)? No.

    *   Sense 2 (tier) vs Sense 7 (layer/stratum).
    *   "Federal level" and "state level" describe different administrative tiers.
    *   Looking at Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum | examples=a good actor communicates on several levels; a simile has at least two layers of meaning".
    *   Looking at Sense 2: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier | examples=lumber of the highest grade".
    *   Wait, let's re-evaluate. "Federal level" is a common way to describe a tier of government.
    *   Let's look at Sense 7 again. "Abstract place... layer, stratum".
    *   Let's look at Sense 3: "specific identifiable position in a continuum or series".
    *   Actually, in many dictionaries, "level" in "federal level" refers to a specific tier or stratum of a hierarchy.
    *   Let's check Sense 7's example: "a good actor communicates on several levels". This is abstract.
    *   Let's check Sense 2's example: "lumber of the highest grade". This is about quality.
    *   Let's check Sense 3's example: "at what stage are the social sciences?". This is about a process.
    *   Let's reconsider Sense 7. "Layer, stratum". Government levels are often called "layers of government".
    *   Let's look at the options again. Is there a better fit?
    *   Sense 1: intensity/amount/quality.
    *   Sense 2: relative position/degree of value.
    *   Sense 3: position in a continuum/series/process.
    *   Sense 7: abstract place/layer/stratum.

    *   "Federal level" refers to the tier of government.
    *   Comparing "state government level" and "federal level".
    *   This is a hierarchical distinction.
    *   Sense 7 (layer, stratum) fits the concept of hierarchical levels (like social strata or layers of government) better than the others, although it's often used for abstract depth.
    *   Wait, let's look at Sense 2 again: "relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier". "Tier" is a very strong synonym for "level" in the context of government.
    *   However, "degree of value" in Sense 2 might be too restrictive.
    *   Let's look at Sense 7 again: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    *   Let's search for "level of government" in dictionaries.
    *   Merriam-Webster: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group" (similar to Sense 2).
    *   Oxford: "a particular position in a hierarchy".
    *   Looking at the provided senses:
        Sense 2: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier"
        Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum"
    *   "Federal level" is a position in the hierarchy of government. "Tier" (Sense 2) fits "position in a hierarchy" very well. "Stratum" (Sense 7) also fits.
    *   Let's re-read Sense 2: "relative position or degree of value in a graded group".
    *   Let's re-read Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth".
    *   "Federal level" isn't really about "depth" in the way a simile has layers of meaning. It's about a position in a hierarchy.
    *   Therefore, Sense 2 (tier) is a better fit for a hierarchical position.

    *   Wait, let me double-check Sense 3: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process". Government levels aren't really a process or a continuum.
    *   Let me double-check Sense 1: "a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality". No.
    *   Let's look at Sense 2 again: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier".
    *   If we consider the "graded group" to be the different levels of government (federal, state, local), then "federal level" is a relative position (the highest tier).

    *   Sense 2: relative position... in a graded group (tier).
    *   Sense 7: abstract place... having depth (layer, stratum).
    *   In the context of "federal level" vs "state level", these are tiers of government. "Tier" is explicitly listed as a synonym for Sense 2.

    *   Sense 2: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier | examples=lumber of the highest grade"
    *   Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum | examples=a good actor communicates on several levels; a simile has at least two layers of meaning"
    *   "Federal level" is a tier of government. "Tier" is in Sense 2.

    *   Wait, let me think about "level" in "federal level" one more time. Is it a "graded group"? Yes, federal, state, local. Is it a "relative position"? Yes.
    *   Is it an "abstract place usually conceived as having depth"? Not really.

    *   Let's check if there's any other sense.
    *   Sense 1: intensity/amount/quality.
    *   Sense 3: position in a continuum/series/process.
    *   Sense 4: height.
    *   Sense 5: tool.
    *   Sense 6: flat surface.
    *   Sense 8: floor.

    *   Comparing Sense 2 and Sense 7 again.
    *   Sense 2: "relative position... in a graded group" (tier).
    *   Sense 7: "abstract place... having depth" (layer, stratum).
    *   "Federal level" is a tier of government.

    *   Let's search for "level" in the context of "federal level" in a dictionary.
    *   Collins Dictionary: "a level of something is a particular height, position, or amount".
    *   Cambridge Dictionary: "a particular level or stage in a process".
    *   Wait, let's look at Sense 3 again: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process | synonyms=degree, stage, point".
    *   Is the government structure a "series"? Federal -> State -> Local.
    *   But "tier" (Sense 2) is a much more common synonym for "level of government".

    *   Let's re-examine Sense 2: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier".
    *   Let's re-examine Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    *   If I have to choose between "tier" and "layer/stratum", "tier" (Sense 2) feels slightly more appropriate for government levels, although "layer" is also used. However, Sense 7's definition "usually conceived as having depth" and its examples ("communicates on several levels", "layers of meaning") point toward a different kind of "level" than "federal level".

    *   Let's double-check Sense 2's example: "lumber of the highest grade". This is about quality.
    *   Let's double-check Sense 7's example: "a good actor communicates on several levels". This is about complexity/depth.
    *   Wait, "federal level" is neither quality nor complexity. It's a position in a hierarchy.
    *   Is a hierarchy a "graded group"? Yes.
    *   Is a hierarchy "conceived as having depth"? Not usually in the way Sense 7 describes.

    *   Let's look at Sense 3 again: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process".
    *   Is the government structure a "series"? Maybe.

    *   Let's think about "level" in "federal level" again.
    *   If you are at the "federal level", you are at a certain *tier* of government.
    *   If you are at the "state level", you are at another *tier*.
    *   This fits "relative position... in a graded group" (Sense 2).

    *   Let's search for "level" in a dictionary again.
    *   Merriam-Webster:
        1. a horizontal plane
        2. a height
        3. a position on a real or imaginary scale (e.g., "level of income", "level of government")
    *   Looking at the provided senses:
        Sense 1: position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality.
        Sense 2: relative position or degree of value in a graded group.
        Sense 3: specific identifiable position in a continuum or series.
    *   Wait, "level of government" might fit Sense 2 (relative position in a graded group) or Sense 3 (identifiable position in a series).
    *   But "tier" is a synonym for Sense 2. "Tier of government" is a very common phrase.

    *   Let's re-read Sense 2: "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier".
    *   Let's re-read Sense 7: "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    *   Actually, "stratum" (Sense 7) is also used for social levels (social strata).
    *   But "federal level" is more of a "tier" (Sense 2).

    *   Let's consider Sense 3 again: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process".
    *   Is "federal level" a position in a series? (Federal, State, Local). Yes.
    *   Is it a "continuum"? No.
    *   Is it a "process"? No.

    *   Let's compare Sense 2 and Sense 3 again.
    *   Sense 2: relative position... in a graded group (tier).
    *   Sense 3: specific identifiable position in a continuum or series (stage, point).
    *   "Tier" (Sense 2) is a better fit for "level of government" than "stage" or "point" (Sense 3).

    *   Wait, let me look at Sense 7 one more time. "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    *   Could "federal level" be a "layer" of government? Yes.
    *   But is it "conceived as having depth"? Not really.

    *   Let's look at Sense 2 again. "a relative position or degree of value in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier".
    *   "Federal level" is a relative position (the highest) in a graded group (the levels of government).

    *   Let's double-check the examples for Sense 2: "lumber of the highest grade". This is a "grade" of lumber.
    *   Let's double-check the examples for Sense 7: "a good actor communicates on several levels". This is about depth of meaning.

    *   Wait, let me search for "level" in the context of "federal level" in a dictionary one more time.
    *   In some dictionaries, "level" as in "federal level" is defined as "a position in a hierarchy".
    *   Which of the provided senses best matches "position in a hierarchy"?
    *   Sense 2: "relative position... in a graded group | synonyms=grade, tier".
    *   Sense 7: "abstract place... having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    *   "Tier" is a very common synonym for "position in a hierarchy".

    *   Let's think about "graded group". Is the government structure a "graded group"?
    *   Graded: arranged in grades.
    *   Grades: a scale of relative quality, rank, or value.
    *   Yes, federal, state, and local governments are ranked by their jurisdiction and authority.

    *   Let's think about "abstract place usually conceived as having depth".
    *   Does "federal level" fit this? Not really.

    *   Therefore, Sense 2 seems the most plausible.

    *   Wait, let me re-read Sense 3: "a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process | synonyms=degree, stage, point".
    *   Could "federal level" be a "point" or "stage" in a series?
    *   It's a position in a series (Federal, State, Local), but "tier" (Sense 2) is a much better fit than "stage" or "point".

    *   Let me re-read Sense 1: "a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality | synonyms=degree, grade".
    *   "Federal level" is not about intensity, amount, or quality.

    *   Let me re-read Sense 7 again. "an abstract place usually conceived as having depth | synonyms=layer, stratum".
    *   Some people might call government levels "layers". But the "depth" part of the definition is key. "A simile has at least two layers of meaning." This is about depth of meaning, not hierarchical levels.

    *   So, Sense 2 (relative position in a graded group / tier) is the strongest candidate.

    *   Wait, let me search for "level" in the context of "federal level" in a dictionary again.
    *   Looking at a different dictionary (WordNet):
        - level (n): a relative position or degree of value in a graded group (synonyms: grade, tier)
        - level (n): a specific identifiable position in a continuum or series or especially in a process (synonyms: degree, stage, point)
        - level (n): an abstract place usually conceived as having depth (synonyms: layer, stratum)
    *   This matches the provided senses exactly.
    *   Now, which one does "federal level" fit?
    *   "Federal level" is a tier of government.
    *   "Tier" is a synonym for the first one (Sense 2).

    *   Let's double-check:
        Sense 2: relative position or degree of value in a graded group (tier).
        Sense 3: specific identifiable position in a continuum or series (stage, point).
        Sense 7: abstract place usually conceived as having depth (layer, stratum).

    *   "Federal level" is a tier in the hierarchy of government.
    *   Therefore, Sense 2 is the most accurate.


[User]
Which numbered sense of "line" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature <t>lines</t> than the reverse. A cross-state econometric investigation, furthermore, reveals that, holding other factors constant, the difference between a state's major - party vote going to the Republican gubernatorial candidate and the Republican share of the lower state house is a positive function of the state tax rate.

Senses:
1. definition=a formation of people or things one beside another | examples=the line of soldiers advanced with their bayonets fixed; they were arrayed in line of battle
2. definition=a mark that is long relative to its width | examples=He drew a line on the chart
3. definition=a formation of people or things one behind another | examples=the line stretched clear around the corner; you must wait in a long line at the checkout counter
4. definition=a length (straight or curved) without breadth or thickness; the trace of a moving point
5. definition=text consisting of a row of words written across a page or computer screen | examples=the letter consisted of three short lines; there are six lines in every stanza
6. definition=a single frequency (or very narrow band) of radiation in a spectrum
7. definition=a fortified position (especially one marking the most forward position of troops) | examples=they attacked the enemy's line
8. definition=a course of reasoning aimed at demonstrating a truth or falsehood; the methodical process of logical reasoning | synonyms=argumentation, logical argument, argument, line of reasoning | examples=I can't follow your line of reasoning
9. definition=a conductor for transmitting electrical or optical signals or electric power | synonyms=cable, transmission line
10. definition=a connected series of events or actions or developments | synonyms=course | examples=the government took a firm course; historians can only point out those lines for which evidence is available
11. definition=a spatial location defined by a real or imaginary unidimensional extent
12. definition=a slight depression in the smoothness of a surface | synonyms=wrinkle, furrow, crease, crinkle, seam | examples=his face has many lines; ironing gets rid of most wrinkles
13. definition=a pipe used to transport liquids or gases | synonyms=pipeline | examples=a pipeline runs from the wells to the seaport
14. definition=the road consisting of railroad track and roadbed | synonyms=railway line, rail line
15. definition=a telephone connection | synonyms=telephone line, phone line, telephone circuit, subscriber line
16. definition=acting in conformity | examples=in line with; he got out of line
17. definition=the descendants of one individual | synonyms=lineage, line of descent, descent, bloodline, blood, pedigree | examples=his entire lineage has been warriors
18. definition=something (as a cord or rope) that is long and thin and flexible | examples=a washing line
19. definition=the principal activity in your life that you do to earn money | synonyms=occupation, business, job, line of work | examples=he's not in my line of business
20. definition=in games or sports; a mark indicating positions or bounds of the playing area
21. definition=(often plural) a means of communication or access | synonyms=channel, communication channel | examples=it must go through official channels; lines of communication were set up between the two firms
22. definition=a particular kind of product or merchandise | synonyms=product line, line of products, line of merchandise, business line, line of business | examples=a nice line of shoes
23. definition=a commercial organization serving as a common carrier
24. definition=space for one line of print (one column wide and 1/14 inch deep) used to measure advertising | synonyms=agate line
25. definition=the maximum credit that a customer is allowed | synonyms=credit line, line of credit, bank line, personal credit line, personal line of credit
26. definition=a succession of notes forming a distinctive sequence | synonyms=tune, melody, air, strain, melodic line, melodic phrase | examples=she was humming an air from Beethoven
27. definition=persuasive but insincere talk that is usually intended to deceive or impress | examples=`let me show you my etchings' is a rather worn line; he has a smooth line but I didn't fall for it
28. definition=a short personal letter | synonyms=note, short letter, billet | examples=drop me a line when you get there
29. definition=a conceptual separation or distinction | synonyms=dividing line, demarcation, contrast | examples=there is a narrow line between sanity and insanity
30. definition=mechanical system in a factory whereby an article is conveyed through sites at which successive operations are performed on it | synonyms=production line, assembly line

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature <t>lines</t> than the reverse."
    *   Target word: "lines" (plural of "line").
    *   Meaning in context: The phrase "split along ... lines" suggests a division, a boundary, or a distinction between two groups or categories (Republican-governor vs. Democratic-legislature).

    *   1: Formation of people/things side by side (No)
    *   2: Mark long relative to width (No)
    *   3: Formation of people/things one behind another (No)
    *   4: Length without breadth (No)
    *   5: Row of words (No)
    *   6: Frequency of radiation (No)
    *   7: Fortified position (No)
    *   8: Course of reasoning (No)
    *   9: Conductor for signals/power (No)
    *   10: Connected series of events (No)
    *   11: Spatial location (No)
    *   12: Slight depression/wrinkle (No)
    *   13: Pipe for liquids/gases (No)
    *   14: Railroad track (No)
    *   15: Telephone connection (No)
    *   16: Acting in conformity (No - "in line with" is different from "split along lines")
    *   17: Descendants (No)
    *   18: Cord or rope (No)
    *   19: Principal activity/job (No)
    *   20: Mark in games/sports (No)
    *   21: Means of communication (No)
    *   22: Kind of product (No)
    *   23: Commercial organization (No)
    *   24: Space for print (No)
    *   25: Maximum credit (No)
    *   26: Succession of notes (No)
    *   27: Persuasive but insincere talk (No)
    *   28: Short personal letter (No)
    *   29: A conceptual separation or distinction | synonyms=dividing line, demarcation, contrast | examples=there is a narrow line between sanity and insanity (Yes)
    *   30: Mechanical system/assembly line (No)

    *   The phrase "split along [X] lines" means that the division occurs based on the distinction or boundary defined by [X].
    *   Sense 29: "a conceptual separation or distinction | synonyms=dividing line, demarcation, contrast".
    *   This fits perfectly. The "lines" here are the conceptual boundaries separating the Republican-governor and Democratic-legislature roles.


[User]
Which numbered sense of "reverse" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: Finally, as shown in the table, Democrats allocate a higher proportion of their personal staffs to district offices -- where local benefit - seeking duties matter more and national policy making activities matter less relative to Washington offices. An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the <t>reverse</t>. A cross-state econometric investigation, furthermore, reveals that, holding other factors constant, the difference between a state's major - party vote going to the Republican gubernatorial candidate and the Republican share of the lower state house is a positive function of the state tax rate.

Senses:
1. definition=a relation of direct opposition | synonyms=contrary, opposite | examples=we thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true
2. definition=the gears by which the motion of a machine can be reversed | synonyms=reverse gear
3. definition=an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating | synonyms=reversal, setback, blow, black eye
4. definition=the side of a coin or medal that does not bear the principal design | synonyms=verso
5. definition=(American football) a running play in which a back running in one direction hands the ball to a back running in the opposite direction
6. definition=turning in the opposite direction | synonyms=reversion, reversal, turnabout, turnaround

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the <t>reverse</t>."
    *   The sentence compares two scenarios:
        1.  Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature
        2.  The reverse (which would be Democratic-governor / Republican-legislature).
    *   The word "reverse" here refers to the opposite arrangement or the contrary situation.

    *   Sense 1: "a relation of direct opposition | synonyms=contrary, opposite | examples=we thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true"
    *   Sense 2: "the gears by which the motion of a machine can be reversed | synonyms=reverse gear"
    *   Sense 3: "an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating | synonyms=reversal, setback, blow, black eye"
    *   Sense 4: "the side of a coin or medal that does not bear the principal design | synonyms=verso"
    *   Sense 5: "(American football) a running play in which a back running in one direction hands the ball to a back running in the opposite direction"
    *   Sense 6: "turning in the opposite direction | synonyms=reversion, reversal, turnabout, turnaround"

    *   The context describes a specific configuration (Rep Gov / Dem Leg) and compares it to the opposite configuration (Dem Gov / Rep Leg).
    *   This matches Sense 1: "a relation of direct opposition" or "opposite".

    *   Sense 2 (gears), 3 (setback), 4 (coin), 5 (football) are clearly incorrect.
    *   Sense 6 (turning/reversion) refers more to the *act* of changing direction or a turnaround, whereas Sense 1 refers to the *opposite state or relation*. In "than the reverse", it refers to the opposite arrangement.

    *   "State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the [opposite arrangement]."
    *   This fits Sense 1 perfectly.


[User]
Which numbered sense of "investigation" (marked with <t></t>) is used in the context below? Return only the number of the correct sense.

Context: An examination of changes in personal staffing decisions in the Senate between 1986 and 1987 -LRB- when control of that body changed party hands -RRB-, moreover, reveals that the personal staffing differences noted in the table can not be attributed to the disproportionate control Democrats exercise, due to their majority - party status, over other resources such as committee staff. An additional piece of evidence from the Senate: Holding other factors constant, such as incumbency advantages and regional factors, the difference between popular votes for Republican presidential and senatorial candidates in states conducting a Senate election turns out to be a positive function of how onerous the federal government's tax burden is per state -LRB- a progressive tax rate hits higher - income states harder -RRB-. Put more simply, GOP candidates for president are looked on more kindly by voters than Republican candidates for the Senate when the prisoner's sentence is more severe. Moreover, ticket splitting appears to take the same peculiar pattern at the state government level as it does at the federal level. State government is more typically split along Republican-governor / Democratic-legislature lines than the reverse. A cross-state econometric <t>investigation</t>, furthermore, reveals that, holding other factors constant, the difference between a state's major - party vote going to the Republican gubernatorial candidate and the Republican share of the lower state house is a positive function of the state tax rate. In sum, at both the federal and state government levels at least part of the seemingly irrational behavior voters display in the voting booth may have an exceedingly rational explanation.

Senses:
1. definition=an inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities | synonyms=probe | examples=there was a congressional probe into the scandal
2. definition=the work of inquiring into something thoroughly and systematically | synonyms=investigating

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "A cross-state econometric <t>investigation</t>, furthermore, reveals that..."
    *   The context describes a study using econometric methods to analyze voting patterns and tax rates across different states.
    *   It's part of a larger argument using evidence (examination of staffing decisions, analysis of popular votes) to explain voter behavior.

    *   Sense 1: "an inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities" (synonym: probe). Example: "congressional probe into the scandal". This usually implies a criminal or misconduct investigation.
    *   Sense 2: "the work of inquiring into something thoroughly and systematically" (synonym: investigating). This refers to research, academic study, or systematic analysis.

    *   The "cross-state econometric investigation" is a systematic analysis of data (econometrics) to find a correlation/function between tax rates and voting patterns.
    *   It is not an inquiry into "questionable activities" or a "scandal".
    *   It fits the definition of "inquiring into something thoroughly and systematically" (research/study).

    *   Sense 2 is the correct fit.