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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger <t>cities</t>, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians..."
    *   Target word: "cities" (plural of "city").
    *   Surrounding context: "Locally elected school boards", "local politicians", "New York City", "Chicago and other cities".

    *   Sense 1: A large and densely populated urban area (geographical/physical/general urban center).
    *   Sense 2: An incorporated administrative district established by state charter (legal/political entity/government).
    *   Sense 3: People living in a large densely populated municipality (the population/residents).

    *   The sentence discusses "locally elected school boards" and "local politicians".
    *   School boards are administrative/governmental bodies.
    *   The "cities" mentioned are the entities that have these school boards and politicians.
    *   This points towards the administrative/political definition (Sense 2) rather than just the physical urban area (Sense 1) or the people (Sense 3).
    *   Comparing Sense 1 and Sense 2: Sense 1 is about the *place* (metropolis), while Sense 2 is about the *government/administrative unit*. Since the context is about school boards and politicians, Sense 2 is the most precise fit.

    *   "Locally elected school boards... in our larger cities..."
    *   Does it mean "in our larger urban areas" (Sense 1) or "in our larger incorporated administrative districts" (Sense 2)?
    *   Usually, when talking about elections, boards, and politicians, the "city" refers to the municipal government/entity.

    *   Sense 1: Physical/Urban area.
    *   Sense 2: Administrative/Legal entity.
    *   Sense 3: The people.
    *   The context is about governance (school boards, politicians). This strongly aligns with Sense 2.


attempt_kind: initial

status: success

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

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

Senses:
1. definition=enter or assume a certain state or condition | synonyms=go, get | examples=He became annoyed when he heard the bad news; It must be getting more serious
2. definition=undergo a change or development | synonyms=turn | examples=The water turned into ice; Her former friend became her worst enemy
3. definition=come into existence | examples=What becomes has duration
4. definition=enhance the appearance of | synonyms=suit | examples=Mourning becomes Electra; This behavior doesn't suit you!

finish_reason: stop

role: assistant

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, <t>become</t> the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians."
    *   Target word: "become"

    *   Sense 1: enter or assume a certain state or condition (e.g., "became annoyed").
    *   Sense 2: undergo a change or development (e.g., "turned into ice", "became her worst enemy").
    *   Sense 3: come into existence (e.g., "What becomes has duration").
    *   Sense 4: enhance the appearance of / suit (e.g., "Mourning becomes Electra").

    *   The sentence says school boards "become the prey of... politicians."
    *   This means the school boards enter a state of being "the prey" or undergo a change where they are now controlled/exploited by politicians.
    *   Comparing Sense 1 and Sense 2:
        *   Sense 1 is about assuming a state or condition (e.g., annoyed, serious).
        *   Sense 2 is about a change or development, often transforming into something else (e.g., water to ice, friend to enemy).
    *   "Become the prey" is very similar to "became her worst enemy" (Sense 2). It describes a transformation in the role or status of the school boards.
    *   However, let's look closer at Sense 1: "enter or assume a certain state or condition". Being "the prey" is a state or condition.
    *   Let's re-evaluate Sense 2: "undergo a change or development".
    *   In many dictionaries, "become" followed by a noun phrase (like "the prey") often falls under the category of changing into something or assuming a role.
    *   Example from Sense 2: "Her former friend became her worst enemy." (Noun phrase: "her worst enemy").
    *   Example from Sense 1: "He became annoyed" (Adjective: "annoyed").
    *   In the context "become the prey", "the prey" is a noun phrase. This aligns perfectly with the example in Sense 2 ("became her worst enemy").

    *   Sense 1: Adjective/State (annoyed, serious).
    *   Sense 2: Noun/Transformation (ice, enemy).
    *   Context: "the prey" (Noun).

    *   The usage "become the prey" matches the pattern of Sense 2.

currency: USD

source: unavailable


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

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

Senses:
1. definition=having a strong desire for success or achievement
2. definition=requiring full use of your abilities or resources | synonyms=challenging | examples=ambitious schedule; performed the most challenging task without a mistake

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Locally elected school boards... become the prey of <t>ambitious</t>, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians."
    *   Target word: "ambitious"
    *   Senses:
        1.  having a strong desire for success or achievement.
        2.  requiring full use of your abilities or resources (challenging).

    *   The word "ambitious" describes "local politicians or would-be politicians."
    *   It is grouped with "corrupt" and "demagogic."
    *   In this context, it refers to people who want power, success, or higher office.

    *   Sense 1: "having a strong desire for success or achievement" fits perfectly. Politicians who are "ambitious" are seeking power/success.
    *   Sense 2: "requiring full use of your abilities or resources" (like an "ambitious project") does not fit a person in this way (unless describing their goals, but here it describes the people themselves).

    *   The correct sense is 1.


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

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

Senses:
1. definition=usually; as a rule | synonyms=by and large, more often than not, mostly | examples=by and large it doesn't rain much here
2. definition=without distinction of one from others | synonyms=in general, in the main | examples=he is interested in snakes in general
3. definition=without regard to specific details or exceptions | synonyms=broadly, loosely, broadly speaking | examples=he interprets the law broadly

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Locally elected school boards... become the prey of ambitious, <t>generally</t> corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians..."
    *   Target word: "generally"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  usually; as a rule (by and large, more often than not, mostly)
        2.  without distinction of one from others (in general, in the main)
        3.  without regard to specific details or exceptions (broadly, loosely, broadly speaking)

    *   The sentence describes local politicians who are "ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic."
    *   "Invariably" means always.
    *   "Generally" here modifies "corrupt."
    *   Does it mean "usually corrupt" (Sense 1)? Yes, it suggests that most of these politicians are corrupt, or that corruption is a common trait among them.
    *   Does it mean "without distinction" (Sense 2)? Not really. It's not saying "corrupt in general" as a category, but rather that they are usually corrupt.
    *   Does it mean "broadly speaking" (Sense 3)? No, it's not about interpreting a law or speaking loosely.

    *   Sense 1: "usually; as a rule". If we replace "generally" with "usually", the sentence reads: "...ambitious, usually corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians..." This fits perfectly.
    *   Sense 2: "without distinction". "...ambitious, in general corrupt..." (Doesn't fit as well).
    *   Sense 3: "broadly". "...ambitious, broadly corrupt..." (Doesn't fit the intended meaning of frequency/prevalence).

    *   The author is making a generalization about the nature of these politicians. "Generally corrupt" means that in most cases, they are corrupt. This aligns with "usually" or "more often than not."


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

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

Senses:
1. definition=lacking in integrity | examples=humanity they knew to be corrupt...from the day of Adam's creation; a corrupt and incompetent city government
2. definition=not straight; dishonest or immoral or evasive | synonyms=crooked
3. definition=containing errors or alterations | synonyms=corrupted | examples=a corrupt text; spoke a corrupted version of the language
4. definition=touched by rot or decay | synonyms=tainted | examples=tainted bacon; `corrupt' is archaic

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Locally elected school boards... become the prey of ambitious, generally <t>corrupt</t>, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians."
    *   Target word: "corrupt"
    *   Contextual clues: "ambitious", "demagogic local politicians", "prey of", "school boards". The context describes politicians who are likely using their positions for personal gain or lacking integrity.

    *   Sense 1: "lacking in integrity" (Example: "a corrupt and incompetent city government").
    *   Sense 2: "not straight; dishonest or immoral or evasive" (Synonym: "crooked").
    *   Sense 3: "containing errors or alterations" (Example: "a corrupt text").
    *   Sense 4: "touched by rot or decay" (Example: "tainted bacon").

    *   Sense 3 (errors/alterations) and Sense 4 (rot/decay) are clearly incorrect.
    *   Sense 1 and Sense 2 are very similar.
    *   Sense 1 specifically mentions "a corrupt and incompetent city government," which mirrors the context of "local politicians" and "school boards" (government entities).
    *   Sense 2 is a more general definition of dishonesty/immorality.
    *   Looking at the provided examples for Sense 1, "a corrupt and incompetent city government" is a near-perfect match for "corrupt... local politicians".

    *   Sense 1: Lacking in integrity (often used for officials/governments).
    *   Sense 2: Dishonest/immoral (general).
    *   The context refers to politicians. Sense 1's example is specifically about city government.

    *   The most precise fit based on the provided examples is Sense 1.


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

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

Senses:
1. definition=relating to or applicable to or concerned with the administration of a city or town or district rather than a larger area | examples=local taxes; local authorities
2. definition=of or belonging to or characteristic of a particular locality or neighborhood | examples=local customs; local schools
3. definition=affecting only a restricted part or area of the body | examples=local anesthesia

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic <t>local</t> politicians or would-be politicians."
    *   Target word: "local" (modifying "politicians").
    *   Surrounding context: "Locally elected school boards", "larger cities", "New York City", "Chicago and other cities".

    *   Sense 1: "relating to or applicable to or concerned with the administration of a city or town or district rather than a larger area" (e.g., local taxes, local authorities).
    *   Sense 2: "of or belonging to or characteristic of a particular locality or neighborhood" (e.g., local customs, local schools).
    *   Sense 3: "affecting only a restricted part or area of the body" (e.g., local anesthesia).

    *   The text discusses "local politicians" in the context of "locally elected school boards" in "larger cities" (NYC, Chicago).
    *   These politicians are involved in the *administration* of the school boards within those cities/districts.
    *   Sense 3 (medical) is obviously incorrect.
    *   Sense 2 (characteristic of a locality/neighborhood) is more about culture, customs, or simply being *from* there.
    *   Sense 1 (administration of a city/town/district rather than a larger area) fits perfectly because it refers to the political administration of the city/district (school boards).

    *   "Local politicians" in this context refers to those operating within the administrative structure of the city/district (the school board).
    *   Sense 1 specifically mentions "administration of a city or town or district".

    *   The user wants only the number.


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

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

Senses:
1. definition=a leader engaged in civil administration
2. definition=a person active in party politics | synonyms=politico, pol, political leader
3. definition=a schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization in sly or underhanded ways

reasoning_content:
*   Context: A passage discussing parental involvement in education and criticizing locally elected school boards. It mentions that these boards "become the prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local <t>politicians</t> or would-be politicians."
    *   Target word: "politicians"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  A leader engaged in civil administration.
        2.  A person active in party politics (politico, pol, political leader).
        3.  A schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization in sly or underhanded ways.

    *   The text describes these politicians as "ambitious," "generally corrupt," and "invariably demagogic."
    *   They are "locally elected" (or "would-be") and involved in "school boards."
    *   The tone is critical, associating them with corruption and demagoguery.

    *   Sense 1 (civil administration): This is a neutral description of a public official. While they are in administration, the context emphasizes the *political* nature (elected, demagogic, party-like ambition) and the negative traits.
    *   Sense 2 (person active in party politics): This fits the "locally elected" and "would-be politicians" part. "Politico" often carries a slightly negative or purely tactical connotation.
    *   Sense 3 (schemer): This fits the "ambitious," "corrupt," and "demagogic" descriptions. A "schemer who tries to gain advantage... in sly or underhanded ways" aligns well with "corrupt" and "demagogic."

    *   Wait, let's look closer. Are they "schemers in an organization" (Sense 3) or "people active in party politics" (Sense 2)?
    *   The text says "locally elected school boards... become the prey of... local politicians."
    *   Usually, "politician" in a derogatory sense referring to someone who uses politics for personal gain or manipulates people (demagogic) can lean towards Sense 2 (the "politico" type) or Sense 3 (the "schemer" type).
    *   However, Sense 2 specifically mentions "party politics" and "political leader."
    *   Sense 3 describes a "schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization." A school board is an organization/governing body.
    *   Let's re-read the adjectives: "ambitious," "corrupt," "demagogic."
    *   "Demagogic" specifically refers to political leadership that appeals to desires and prejudices rather than rational argument. This strongly links to the *act* of politics (Sense 2).
    *   "Corrupt" and "ambitious" can apply to both Sense 2 and Sense 3.
    *   Is a "local politician" on a school board a "person active in party politics" or a "schemer in an organization"?
    *   In the context of "locally elected school boards," these people are running for office. That is the definition of being active in politics (Sense 2).
    *   Sense 3 is often used for "office politics" (e.g., "He's a real politician in the office"), where the person isn't necessarily a public official but behaves like one to get ahead.
    *   Here, they are *actually* politicians (elected officials).

    *   Sense 1: Too neutral.
    *   Sense 2: Fits the "elected" and "demagogic" nature.
    *   Sense 3: Fits the "corrupt" and "ambitious" nature, but usually refers to non-elected organizational maneuvering.

    *   The phrase "would-be politicians" suggests people seeking political office. This points directly to Sense 2.

    *   Sense 2: "a person active in party politics | synonyms=politico, pol, political leader"
    *   The context describes people who are elected to boards and use demagoguery. This is the essence of the "politico" (Sense 2).

    *   Wait, let me double-check Sense 3 again: "a schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization in sly or underhanded ways."
    *   While the author *views* them as schemers, they are *literally* politicians (elected officials).
    *   Usually, in these NLP tasks, if the person is an actual elected official, Sense 2 is preferred over the metaphorical "office politician" (Sense 3).

    *   "Locally elected school boards... become the prey of... local politicians."
    *   They are people who run for and hold political office.
    *   Sense 2 is the most accurate description of their role, even if the author dislikes them.

    *   Sense 1: Civil administration (too broad/neutral).
    *   Sense 2: Party politics/politico (fits elected officials).
    *   Sense 3: Schemer in an organization (fits the "corrupt" part, but usually implies non-political organizations).

    *   The use of "demagogic" and "locally elected" strongly points to Sense 2.


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

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

Senses:
1. definition=a leader engaged in civil administration
2. definition=a person active in party politics | synonyms=politico, pol, political leader
3. definition=a schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization in sly or underhanded ways

reasoning_content:
*   Context: A passage discussing parental involvement in education and criticizing locally elected school boards. It mentions that these boards often become the "prey of ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic local politicians or would-be politicians."
    *   Target word: "politicians" (marked with `<t></t>`).
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  A leader engaged in civil administration.
        2.  A person active in party politics (politico, pol, political leader).
        3.  A schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization in sly or underhanded ways.

    *   The text describes these "politicians" as "ambitious, generally corrupt, and invariably demagogic."
    *   They are "local politicians" associated with "locally elected school boards."
    *   The context emphasizes the political nature of the role (elected boards) and the negative traits often associated with party politics or power-seeking in a public office.

    *   Sense 1 (civil administration): This is a neutral description of a public official. While they are in administration, the context emphasizes the "demagogic" and "corrupt" nature of their political ambition.
    *   Sense 2 (person active in party politics): This fits well. "Local politicians" usually refers to people active in the political arena, seeking office, and engaging in party/local politics. The terms "ambitious" and "demagogic" are strongly linked to the behavior of people in party politics.
    *   Sense 3 (schemer in an organization): This usually refers to "office politics" (e.g., a corporate climber), not necessarily someone running for elected public office. While the text mentions corruption, it specifically links them to "locally elected school boards," which points to public political office rather than internal organizational scheming.

    *   The phrase "locally elected school boards" strongly points to Sense 2 (people active in party/local politics).
    *   The adjectives "ambitious," "corrupt," and "demagogic" are classic descriptors used when criticizing politicians in the sense of party/public office seekers.

    *   Sense 2 is the most accurate fit for "local politicians" in the context of elected boards.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "New York is in the <t>process</t> of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance..."
    *   Target word: "process"

    *   Sense 1: a particular course of action intended to achieve a result (synonym: procedure). Example: "the procedure of obtaining a driver's license".
    *   Sense 2: (psychology) cognitive activity. Example: "the process of thinking".
    *   Sense 3: a legal writ/summons.
    *   Sense 4: an unconscious mental process. Example: "the process of denial".
    *   Sense 5: a biological outgrowth/projection. Example: "a bony process".
    *   Sense 6: a sustained phenomenon or one marked by gradual changes through a series of states (synonym: physical process). Example: "the process of calcification".

    *   The phrase "in the process of [doing something]" usually refers to being in the middle of a series of actions or a course of action to achieve a goal.
    *   In the context: "New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself..."
    *   This describes a course of action (disengaging from a system) intended to achieve a result (no longer being committed to that system).

    *   Sense 1 fits best: "a particular course of action intended to achieve a result".
    *   Sense 6 refers more to natural/physical phenomena (like calcification).
    *   Senses 2, 3, 4, and 5 are clearly incorrect.

    *   "In the process of" is a common idiom meaning "currently doing something that takes time/steps". This aligns with Sense 1 (course of action).


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "New York is in the process of <t>trying</t> to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance..."
    *   Target word: "trying" (from "try").

    *   Sense 1: make an effort or attempt (seek, attempt).
    *   Sense 2: put to the test (test, prove).
    *   Sense 3: put on trial (judge, adjudicate).
    *   Sense 4: take a sample of (sample, taste).
    *   Sense 5: examine or hear evidence (judicial process).
    *   Sense 6: give pain or trouble to.
    *   Sense 7: test the limits of (strain, stress).
    *   Sense 8: melt fat (render).
    *   Sense 9: put on a garment (try on).

    *   "New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself..."
    *   Does it mean "making an effort to disengage"? Yes.
    *   Does it mean "testing the quality of disengaging"? No.
    *   Does it mean "putting on trial"? No.
    *   Does it mean "sampling"? No.
    *   Does it mean "giving pain"? No.
    *   Does it mean "straining patience"? No.
    *   Does it mean "melting fat"? No.
    *   Does it mean "trying on clothes"? No.

    *   Sense 1: "make an effort or attempt".
    *   Example: "He tried to shake off his fears."
    *   This matches perfectly with "trying to disengage itself".


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this <t>system</t> of school governance..."
    *   The word "system" refers to "school governance."
    *   School governance involves the rules, methods, and structures by which schools are managed and governed (specifically, the use of locally elected school boards mentioned in the previous sentence).

    *   Sense 1: Instrumentality (artifacts/hardware) - No.
    *   Sense 2: Group of independent but interrelated elements (scheme) - Possible, but usually refers to larger economic or social structures (e.g., production/distribution).
    *   Sense 3: Physical chemistry (matter/phases) - No.
    *   Sense 4: A complex of methods or rules governing behavior (system of rules) - This fits well. School governance is a set of rules and methods for how schools are run.
    *   Sense 5: Organized structure for arranging or classifying - No.
    *   Sense 6: Physiological/anatomical organs - No.
    *   Sense 7: A procedure or process for obtaining an objective - Possible, but "governance" is more about the rules/framework than a specific procedure for a single objective.
    *   Sense 8: The living body - No.
    *   Sense 9: Ordered manner/orderliness - No.

    *   Sense 2: "a group of independent but interrelated elements comprising a unified whole" (e.g., "system of production").
    *   Sense 4: "a complex of methods or rules governing behavior" (e.g., "operate under a system they oppose").
    *   The context describes "school governance" via "locally elected school boards." This is a framework of rules and methods for governing. Sense 4 specifically mentions "rules governing behavior" and "operate under a system," which aligns closely with governance.

    *   "this system of school governance"
    *   Governance is essentially the system of rules and methods by which an organization is controlled.
    *   Sense 4: "a complex of methods or rules governing behavior".

    *   Sense 2 is more about a network of entities (like a distribution system).
    *   Sense 4 is more about the regulatory framework (like a legal system or a governance system).
    *   Governance is a regulatory framework.

    *   Sense 4 is the best fit.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of <t>school</t> governance..."
    *   Target word: "school" (used as a modifier in "school governance").
    *   Surrounding context: Mentions "kids", "truant", "homework", "report card", "parents", "dissatisfied with a school", "locally elected school boards", "expenditures on education".

    *   Sense 1: an educational institution (e.g., "the school was founded in 1900").
    *   Sense 2: a building where young people receive education (e.g., "the school was built in 1932").
    *   Sense 3: the process of being formally educated (schooling).
    *   Sense 4: a body of creative artists/writers/thinkers.
    *   Sense 5: the period of instruction (schooltime).
    *   Sense 6: an educational institution's faculty and students.
    *   Sense 7: a large group of fish.

    *   The phrase is "school governance".
    *   "Governance" refers to the act or manner of governing.
    *   "School governance" refers to the governance of educational institutions (the system of managing schools).
    *   Looking at the senses:
        *   Sense 1 (educational institution) fits best because governance is applied to the institution.
        *   Sense 2 (building) doesn't fit; you don't govern a building.
        *   Sense 3 (process of education) doesn't fit; you don't govern the process in this administrative sense.
        *   Sense 4 (artistic school) doesn't fit.
        *   Sense 5 (time period) doesn't fit.
        *   Sense 6 (faculty and students) is possible, but governance usually refers to the institution as a whole (the organization).
        *   Sense 7 (fish) doesn't fit.

    *   "School governance" refers to the administration and oversight of the educational institutions.
    *   Sense 1: "an educational institution".
    *   Comparing Sense 1 and Sense 6: Sense 1 is the general term for the organization/institution. Sense 6 is specifically the people. Governance is typically of the institution.

    *   The context mentions "locally elected school boards". These boards govern the schools (the institutions).
    *   Therefore, "school governance" refers to the governance of the educational institutions.

    *   Sense 1: an educational institution. (Correct)


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school <t>governance</t>, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to institute it."
    *   Surrounding context: Mentions "Locally elected school boards," "corrupt... local politicians," and "Community involvement."
    *   Target word: "governance"

    *   Sense 1: "the persons (or committees or departments etc.) who make up a body for the purpose of administering something" (Synonyms: administration, governing body, establishment).
    *   Sense 2: "the act of governing; exercising authority" (Synonyms: government, governing, government activity, administration).

    *   The text refers to a "system of school governance."
    *   It discusses "Locally elected school boards" as the mechanism/body involved.
    *   "System of school governance" usually refers to the *way* schools are governed (the act/process/structure of exercising authority) or the *body* that governs them.
    *   Let's look closer: "this system of school governance." A "system" usually refers to the method or the act of governing rather than the specific people themselves, although the two are closely linked.
    *   However, Sense 1 focuses on the *people/body* (the administration/governing body).
    *   Sense 2 focuses on the *act/exercise of authority* (the governing/administration).
    *   In "system of school governance," it refers to the framework of how authority is exercised (who gets to decide, how they are elected, etc.).
    *   Comparing the examples:
        *   Sense 1: "the governance of an association is responsible to its members" (Here, governance = the governing body).
        *   Sense 2: "regulations for the governing of state prisons" (Here, governing = the act).
    *   In the context "system of school governance," it's referring to the *arrangement* or *act* of governing the schools (the system of administration).
    *   Wait, let's re-read Sense 1: "the persons (or committees or departments etc.) who make up a body for the purpose of administering something".
    *   Let's re-read Sense 2: "the act of governing; exercising authority".
    *   "System of school governance" refers to the *way* schools are governed (the act/process). If it meant the people, it would more likely say "the school governance" or "the governing body."
    *   Actually, looking at the phrase "system of school governance," it describes the *method* of exercising authority (e.g., locally elected boards vs. centralized control). This aligns better with Sense 2 (the act/exercise of authority).

    *   Sense 1: The people/body.
    *   Sense 2: The act/process.
    *   "System of school governance" -> The system of *governing* schools.
    *   If I replace "governance" with "administration" (synonym for both):
        *   Sense 1: "system of school administration" (meaning the people in charge).
        *   Sense 2: "system of school administration" (meaning the process of administering).
    *   The context mentions "Locally elected school boards... become the prey of... politicians." This describes the *structure* of how authority is exercised.
    *   Usually, "governance" in the sense of "corporate governance" or "school governance" refers to the system/process of directing and controlling (Sense 2).

    *   Sense 1: "the governance of an association is responsible to its members" (The body is responsible).
    *   Sense 2: "regulations for the governing of state prisons" (The act of governing).
    *   "System of school governance" is more like "system of governing schools."

    *   Sense 1: The people/body.
    *   Sense 2: The act/exercise of authority.
    *   "System of school governance" refers to the framework/act of governing.

    *Self-Correction:* Let's look at the phrase "system of school governance" again. Is it the *people* (the boards) or the *act* (the way they govern)? The text says "this system of school governance," referring back to "Locally elected school boards." The *system* is the arrangement of having these boards. This is the *act/exercise of authority* (Sense 2).

    *Wait*, let's check if "governance" can mean the body itself in this context. "New York is... trying to disengage itself from a... commitment to this system of school governance." It's disengaging from the *system* (the way it's done), not the people themselves.

    Therefore, Sense 2 is the most fitting.

    *Double check:*
    Sense 1: "the persons... who make up a body"
    Sense 2: "the act of governing; exercising authority"
    "System of school governance" = System of exercising authority over schools.

    Let's re-read Sense 1's example: "the governance of an association is responsible to its members". Here, "governance" is used as a synonym for "governing body".
    In the context "system of school governance", "governance" is used as a synonym for "governing" or "administration" (the act).

    Final choice: 2.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and <t>other</t> cities are moving to institute it."
    *   Target word: "other"
    *   Usage: "Chicago and other cities"

    *   Sense 1: "not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied" (e.g., "highways and other public works").
    *   Sense 2: "recently past" (e.g., "the other evening").
    *   Sense 3: "belonging to the distant past" (e.g., "former generations").
    *   Sense 4: "very unusual; different in character or quality from the normal or expected" (e.g., "a strange, other dimension").

    *   The phrase "Chicago and other cities" refers to cities that are not New York (already mentioned) or simply additional cities besides Chicago.
    *   It fits the definition of "not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied."

    *   Sense 1 matches perfectly.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Locally elected school boards, especially in our larger cities, become the prey of ambitious... New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself... even as Chicago and other <t>cities</t> are moving to institute it."
    *   Target word: "cities" (plural of "city").
    *   Contextual clues: "Locally elected school boards", "New York City", "Chicago", "institute it" (referring to a system of school governance).

    *   Sense 1: A large and densely populated urban area (geographical/physical/general urban center).
    *   Sense 2: An incorporated administrative district established by state charter (legal/political entity, government).
    *   Sense 3: People living in a large densely populated municipality (the population).

    *   The text discusses "locally elected school boards" and "systems of school governance."
    *   It mentions "New York" and "Chicago" as entities that "institute" or "disengage" from a system.
    *   Instituting a system of governance is an action taken by a government or an administrative body, not by a physical urban area (Sense 1) or the general population (Sense 3).
    *   Therefore, "cities" here refers to the administrative/political entities (the municipal governments).

    *   Sense 2 fits best because it describes the city as an administrative district/government entity.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...New York is in the process of trying to disengage itself from a 20-year-old commitment to this system of school governance, even as Chicago and other cities are moving to <t>institute</t> it."
    *   Target word: "institute"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  set up or lay the groundwork for (establish, found, plant, constitute)
        2.  advance or set forth in court (bring)

    *   The sentence discusses "this system of school governance" (referring to locally elected school boards).
    *   New York is disengaging from it.
    *   Chicago and other cities are moving to "institute it" (the system of school governance).
    *   In this context, "institute" means to start, establish, or set up the system.

    *   Sense 1: "set up or lay the groundwork for" (establish, found). This fits perfectly.
    *   Sense 2: "advance or set forth in court" (bring charges). This does not fit at all.

    *   The correct sense is 1.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "In <t>most</t> states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better."
    *   Target word: "most"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  Superlative of 'many' (count nouns), meaning the greatest in number. (Example: most people like eggs)
        2.  Superlative of 'much' (mass nouns), meaning the greatest in amount, extent, or degree. (Example: made the most money)

    *   The word "most" modifies "states".
    *   "States" is a count noun (one state, two states, many states).
    *   The phrase "In most states" means "In the majority of states" or "In a large number of states".

    *   Sense 1: Used with count nouns, meaning the greatest in number. (Fits "states").
    *   Sense 2: Used with mass nouns, meaning the greatest in amount/extent/degree. (Does not fit "states").

    *   The correct sense is 1.


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

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

Senses:
1. definition=money paid out; an amount spent | synonyms=outgo, spending, outlay
2. definition=the act of spending money for goods or services | synonyms=expending
3. definition=the act of consuming something | synonyms=consumption, using up

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "In most states, increasing <t>expenditures</t> on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better."
    *   Target word: "expenditures"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  money paid out; an amount spent (outgo, spending, outlay)
        2.  the act of spending money for goods or services (expending)
        3.  the act of consuming something (consumption, using up)

    *   The sentence discusses "increasing expenditures on education."
    *   It refers to the amount of money being put into the education system.
    *   "Increasing expenditures" usually refers to the total amount of money spent (the budget/outlay).

    *   Sense 1: "money paid out; an amount spent". This fits perfectly. "Increasing the amount of money spent on education."
    *   Sense 2: "the act of spending money". While related, "increasing expenditures" typically refers to the *amount* (the sum) rather than the *process* or *act* of spending.
    *   Sense 3: "the act of consuming something". This is too general and usually refers to resources like energy or time, not specifically financial budgets in this context.

    *   In the phrase "increasing expenditures on education," "expenditures" refers to the total funds allocated/spent. This aligns best with Sense 1 (money paid out; an amount spent).


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "In most states, increasing expenditures on <t>education</t>, in our current circumstances, will probably make things worse, not better. The reason is simple: Education takes place in the classroom, where the influence of money is minimal."
    *   Target word: "education"

    *   Sense 1: The activities of educating or instructing; activities that impart knowledge or skill (instruction, teaching, pedagogy).
    *   Sense 2: Knowledge acquired by learning and instruction (the result/state of being educated).
    *   Sense 3: The gradual process of acquiring knowledge.
    *   Sense 4: The profession of teaching.
    *   Sense 5: The result of good upbringing (social behavior).
    *   Sense 6: The US federal department.

    *   "increasing expenditures on education" -> This refers to the system, the activities, the funding of schools, and the process of teaching/instructing.
    *   "Education takes place in the classroom" -> This refers to the act of teaching/learning or the system of instruction.

    *   Sense 1 (activities of educating/instructing) fits well. "Expenditures on education" usually means spending on the system of instruction/teaching.
    *   Sense 2 (knowledge acquired) doesn't fit "expenditures on [knowledge acquired]".
    *   Sense 3 (gradual process) is close, but "expenditures on the process" is less common than "expenditures on the activities/system of instruction".
    *   Sense 4 (profession of teaching) is possible, but "expenditures on education" is broader than just the profession; it includes facilities, materials, etc.
    *   Sense 5 (upbringing) doesn't fit.
    *   Sense 6 (federal department) doesn't fit "In most states... expenditures on [the US federal department]".

    *   The context discusses school governance, school boards, and classrooms.
    *   "Expenditures on education" refers to the funding of the educational system/activities.
    *   Sense 1: "the activities of educating or instructing; activities that impart knowledge or skill". This is the most comprehensive fit for the general concept of "education" as a sector or activity receiving funding.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current <t>circumstances</t>, will probably make things worse, not better."
    *   Target word: "circumstances" (plural).
    *   Meaning in context: The current state of affairs, the general situation, or the conditions existing at the moment.

    *   Sense 1: "a condition that accompanies or influences some event or activity"
    *   Sense 2: "the set of facts or circumstances that surround a situation or event | synonyms=context, setting | examples=the historical context"
    *   Sense 3: "information that should be kept in mind when making a decision | synonyms=condition, consideration | examples=another consideration is the time it would take"
    *   Sense 4: "formal ceremony about important occasions | examples=pomp and circumstance"

    *   Sense 4 is clearly wrong (not a ceremony).
    *   Sense 3 refers to a specific piece of information/consideration (e.g., "one circumstance to consider is..."). The context "in our current circumstances" refers to the general state of things, not a specific piece of information.
    *   Sense 1 refers to a condition that accompanies or influences an event.
    *   Sense 2 refers to the set of facts/circumstances surrounding a situation (context/setting).

    *   "In our current circumstances" is a common phrase meaning "given the current situation" or "in the current context."
    *   Sense 2 explicitly lists "context" and "setting" as synonyms.
    *   Sense 1 is more about a specific condition influencing an event.
    *   Comparing Sense 1 and Sense 2: Sense 2 ("the set of facts or circumstances that surround a situation") fits "current circumstances" (the current state of the world/education system) better than Sense 1.

    *   "In our current circumstances" $\approx$ "In our current context" or "Given the current set of facts/situation."
    *   This aligns perfectly with Sense 2.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will <t>probably</t> make things worse, not better."
    *   Target word: "probably"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  "with considerable certainty; without much doubt" (likely, in all likelihood).
        2.  "easy to believe on the basis of available evidence" (credibly, believably, plausibly).

    *   The sentence is making a prediction or stating a likely outcome: "increasing expenditures... will probably make things worse".
    *   The author is expressing a high degree of likelihood or probability based on their argument (that money has minimal influence in the classroom).

    *   Sense 1: "with considerable certainty; without much doubt" (likely). This fits perfectly. The author believes it is likely that increasing expenditures will make things worse.
    *   Sense 2: "easy to believe on the basis of available evidence" (credibly, plausibly). This sense usually describes *how* something is said or the *plausibility* of a claim (e.g., "he probably [plausibly] argued that..."). While there is a connection between probability and plausibility, in the context of "will probably [do X]", it almost always means "it is likely that [X will happen]".

    *   "will probably make things worse" $\approx$ "will likely make things worse".
    *   This aligns with Sense 1.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably <t>make</t> things worse, not better."
    *   Target word: "make"
    *   Meaning in context: "increasing expenditures... will probably *make* things worse". Here, "make" means to cause something to become a certain way (worse).

    *   1: engage in (do) - No.
    *   2: give certain properties to something (get someone mad; make us look silly) - This is close. "Make things worse" means giving "things" the property of being "worse".
    *   3: make or cause to be or to become (create a mess; create a furor) - This is also close.
    *   4: cause to do; cause to act in a specified manner (induce) - No.
    *   5: give rise to; cause to happen or occur (cause a commotion) - No.
    *   6: create or manufacture (produce) - No.
    *   7: make, formulate, or derive in the mind (draw a conclusion) - No.
    *   8: compel or make somebody or something to act in a certain way (Heat makes you sweat) - No.
    *   9: create by artistic means - No.
    *   10: earn money - No.
    *   11: create or design - No.
    *   12: compose or represent (form, constitute) - No.
    *   13: reach a goal - No.
    *   14: be or be capable of being changed or made into (He makes a great host) - No.
    *   15: make by shaping - No.
    *   16: perform or carry out (make a decision) - No.
    *   17: make by combining materials - No.
    *   18: change from one form into another (water into wine) - No.
    *   19: act in a certain way so as to acquire (make friends) - No.
    *   20: charge with a function (made president) - No.
    *   21: achieve a point or goal - No.
    *   22: reach a destination - No.
    *   23: institute, enact, or establish (make laws) - No.
    *   24: carry out or commit (make a mistake) - No.
    *   25: form by assembling individuals - No.
    *   26: organize or be responsible for (make a party) - No.
    *   27: put in order or neaten (make the bed) - No.
    *   28: head into a specified direction - No.
    *   29: bowel movement - No.
    *   30: undergo fabrication - No.
    *   31: be suitable for - No.
    *   32: add up to - No.
    *   33: amount to - No.
    *   34: constitute the essence of - No.
    *   35: appear to begin an activity - No.
    *   36: proceed along a path - No.
    *   37: reach in time - No.
    *   38: gather and light materials - No.
    *   39: prepare for eating - No.
    *   40: induce to have sex - No.
    *   41: assure the success of - No.
    *   42: represent fictitiously - No.
    *   43: consider as being - No.
    *   44: calculate as being - No.
    *   45: cause to be enjoyable - No.
    *   46: favor the development of - No.
    *   47: develop into - No.
    *   48: behave in a certain way - No.
    *   49: eliminate urine - No.

    *   Sense 2: "give certain properties to something" (examples: "get someone mad", "She made us look silly").
    *   Sense 3: "make or cause to be or to become" (examples: "make a mess in one's office", "create a furor").

    *   "Make things worse" means to cause things to become worse.
    *   Sense 2 focuses on giving a property (mad, silly). "Worse" is a property/state.
    *   Sense 3 focuses on causing something to be or become (a mess, a furor).

    Let's re-examine Sense 2: "give certain properties to something | synonyms=get | examples=get someone mad; She made us look silly".
    Let's re-examine Sense 3: "make or cause to be or to become | synonyms=create | examples=make a mess in one's office; create a furor".

    "Make things worse" is very similar to "make someone mad" (Sense 2). In both cases, the object ("things", "someone") is being put into a certain state ("worse", "mad").

    Wait, let's look at Sense 3 again: "make or cause to be or to become | synonyms=create | examples=make a mess in one's office; create a furor". "Make a mess" is more like creating something that didn't exist before (a mess).

    Comparing "make things worse" with "make someone mad" (Sense 2) and "make a mess" (Sense 3):
    "Make things worse" is about changing the state of "things" to "worse".
    "Make someone mad" is about changing the state of "someone" to "mad".
    "Make a mess" is about creating a state of disorder.

    Sense 2 seems to fit better because "worse" is an adjective describing the state of "things", just as "mad" and "silly" describe the state of the objects in the examples for Sense 2.

    Let's double-check other senses.
    Sense 8: "compel or make somebody or something to act in a certain way" - No.
    Sense 5: "give rise to; cause to happen or occur" - No.

    Is there any other sense?
    Sense 2: "give certain properties to something"
    Sense 3: "make or cause to be or to become"

    Let's look at the examples again.
    Sense 2: "get someone mad", "She made us look silly".
    Sense 3: "make a mess in one's office", "create a furor".

    "Make things worse" is almost identical in structure to "make someone mad".
    (Make + Object + Adjective/Complement)

    Therefore, Sense 2 is the most likely fit.

    Wait, let me re-read Sense 3: "make or cause to be or to become".
    If I "make a mess", I'm causing a mess to be.
    If I "make things worse", I'm causing things to be worse.

    Let's look at the synonyms.
    Sense 2: synonyms=get
    Sense 3: synonyms=create

    Does "get things worse" work? Not really. Does "create things worse" work? No.
    Wait, "get someone mad" (Sense 2) means "make someone mad".
    "Create a furor" (Sense 3) means "make a furor".

    "Make things worse" is definitely more like "make someone mad" (Sense 2) than "make a mess" (Sense 3).

    Let's re-verify Sense 2: "give certain properties to something".
    "Worse" is a property (a comparative adjective).
    "Mad" is a property.
    "Silly" is a property.

    This fits perfectly.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make <t>things</t> worse, not better."
    *   Target word: "things" (plural of "thing").
    *   Meaning in context: "make things worse" is a common idiom meaning to make the overall situation or state of affairs worse.

    *   1. a special situation (e.g., "this thing has got to end")
    *   2. an action (e.g., "how could you do such a thing?")
    *   3. a special abstraction (e.g., "things of the heart")
    *   4. an artifact (e.g., "how does this thing work?")
    *   5. an event (e.g., "a funny thing happened")
    *   6. a vaguely specified concern (synonyms: matter, affair) (e.g., "several matters to attend to")
    *   7. a statement regarded as an object (e.g., "say the same thing")
    *   8. an entity that is not named specifically (e.g., "I couldn't tell what the thing was")
    *   9. any attribute or quality (e.g., "the thing I like about her")
    *   10. a special objective (e.g., "the thing is to stay in bounds")
    *   11. a persistent illogical feeling (e.g., "has a thing about seafood")
    *   12. a separate and self-contained entity

    *   "Make things worse" refers to the general state of affairs or the situation.
    *   Sense 1: "a special situation" (e.g., "this thing has got to end"). This fits well. "Things" here refers to the general situation or state of affairs.
    *   Sense 6: "a vaguely specified concern" (synonyms: matter, affair). This also seems plausible, but "make things worse" usually refers to the situation as a whole rather than specific "matters" or "affairs".
    *   Let's re-evaluate Sense 1 vs Sense 6.
        *   Sense 1: "this thing has got to end" (the situation).
        *   Sense 6: "several matters to attend to" (specific concerns).
    *   In "make things worse", "things" is used in a general sense to mean "the state of affairs" or "the situation".

    *   "Make things worse" -> "Make the situation worse".
    *   Sense 1: "a special situation".
    *   Sense 6: "a vaguely specified concern".
    *   Comparing "this thing has got to end" (Sense 1) with "make things worse", they both refer to the general state of affairs/situation.

    *   Sense 1: "a special situation"
    *   Sense 6: "a vaguely specified concern"
    *   In the phrase "make things worse", "things" is plural. Does Sense 1 cover the plural "things" as in "the state of affairs"? Yes, "things are looking up" or "how are things?" refers to the general situation.

    *   Sense 1: "this thing has got to end" (the situation).
    *   Sense 6: "several matters to attend to" (concerns/affairs).
    *   "Make things worse" is more about the overall situation than specific concerns.

    *   Wait, let me look at Sense 1 again: "a special situation".
    *   Let me look at Sense 6 again: "a vaguely specified concern | synonyms=matter, affair".
    *   If I say "things are bad", I mean the situation is bad.
    *   If I say "I have things to do", I mean I have matters to attend to (Sense 6).
    *   "Make things worse" is closer to "the situation is bad".

    *   Sense 1: "this thing has got to end" (the situation).
    *   Sense 6: "several matters to attend to" (concerns/affairs).
    *   "Make things worse" = "Make the situation worse".
    *   Therefore, Sense 1 is the best fit.


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

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

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "In most states, increasing expenditures on education, in our current circumstances, will probably make things <t>worse</t>, not better."
    *   Target word: "worse"
    *   Meaning in context: The sentence suggests that increasing spending will lead to a state that is more negative or inferior in quality/condition than the current state. It's a comparison between the current state and a potential future state.

    *   Sense 1: (comparative of `bad') inferior to another in quality or condition or desirability. (Example: "this road is worse than the first one we took")
    *   Sense 2: changed for the worse in health or fitness. (Example: "I feel worse today")
    *   Sense 3: having undesirable or negative qualities. (Example: "a bad report card")
    *   Sense 4: very intense. (Example: "a bad headache")
    *   Sense 5: feeling physical discomfort or pain. (Example: "my throat feels bad")
    *   Sense 6: (of foodstuffs) not in an edible or usable condition. (Example: "bad meat")
    *   Sense 7: feeling or expressing regret or sorrow. (Example: "felt regretful")
    *   Sense 8: not capable of being collected. (Example: "a bad debt")
    *   Sense 9: below average in quality or performance. (Example: "a bad chess player")
    *   Sense 10: nonstandard. (Example: "bad grammar")
    *   Sense 11: not financially safe or secure. (Example: "a bad investment")
    *   Sense 12: physically unsound or diseased. (Example: "a bad back")
    *   Sense 13: capable of harming. (Example: "smoking is bad for you")
    *   Sense 14: characterized by wickedness or immorality. (Example: "led a very bad life")
    *   Sense 15: reproduced fraudulently. (Example: "a forged twenty dollar bill")
    *   Sense 16: not working properly. (Example: "a bad telephone connection")

    *   The phrase "make things worse, not better" clearly indicates a comparison of quality or condition.
    *   Sense 1 is the comparative form of "bad" meaning "inferior to another in quality or condition or desirability." This fits perfectly.
    *   Sense 2 is specifically about health/fitness.
    *   Senses 3-16 are definitions of "bad" (the positive form), not "worse" (the comparative form), although the prompt lists them as senses of "worse" (likely because "worse" is the comparative of "bad"). However, the context "make things worse, not better" is a direct comparison of the state of things.

    *   "make things worse" = make the situation inferior in quality or condition compared to how it is now.
    *   This aligns with Sense 1.