[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: 3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing <t>other</t> districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

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: "...such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing <t>other</t> districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits."
    *   Target word: "other"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  Not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied.
        2.  Recently past.
        3.  Belonging to the distant past.
        4.  Very unusual/different in character.

    *   The sentence discusses a GOP president preventing "other districts/states" from getting benefits.
    *   The "districts/states" being referred to are those *different from* the voter's particular district/state mentioned earlier in the sentence ("...limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state...").
    *   Therefore, "other" here means "not the same one(s) already mentioned."

    *   Sense 1: "not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied" -> Matches perfectly.
    *   Sense 2: "recently past" -> Does not match.
    *   Sense 3: "belonging to the distant past" -> Does not match.
    *   Sense 4: "very unusual" -> Does not match.

The correct sense is 1.


attempt_kind: initial

status: success

[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: 3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the <t>local</t> benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

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

finish_reason: stop

role: assistant

reasoning_content:
*   Context: A passage discussing Republican vs. Democratic representatives, "local benefit-seeking," "local benefits," and "bringing home the bacon" to constituencies.
    *   Target word: "local" in the phrase "bringing home the <t>local</t> benefits."
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  Relating to administration of a city/town/district rather than a larger area (e.g., local taxes, local authorities).
        2.  Of or belonging to or characteristic of a particular locality or neighborhood (e.g., local customs, local schools).
        3.  Affecting only a restricted part or area of the body (e.g., local anesthesia).

    *   The text discusses congressional representatives and their ability to secure benefits for their specific districts or states ("bringing home the bacon").
    *   "Local benefits" here refers to funding, projects, or advantages directed toward a specific congressional district or state, as opposed to national policy or benefits for the whole country.
    *   This is about the administration/allocation of resources to a specific district/area rather than the national level.

    *   Sense 1: "relating to or applicable to or concerned with the administration of a city or town or district rather than a larger area". This fits perfectly. The "local benefits" are benefits for the district/state (the smaller area) as opposed to the national level (the larger area).
    *   Sense 2: "of or belonging to or characteristic of a particular locality or neighborhood". This usually refers to culture, customs, or specific institutions (like a local bakery). While "local" in the text refers to a locality, the context is specifically about political administration and resource allocation (benefits), which aligns better with Sense 1.
    *   Sense 3: "affecting only a restricted part or area of the body". Clearly incorrect.

    *   The context is political and administrative (congressional representatives, districts, states, taxes).
    *   Sense 1 specifically mentions "administration of a city or town or district rather than a larger area".
    *   The "local benefits" are the result of administrative/political action for a specific district.

currency: USD

source: unavailable


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

Context: 3 -RRB- Republican congressional representatives, because of their belief in a minimalist state, are less willing to engage in local benefit-seeking than are Democratic members of Congress. If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local <t>benefits</t>. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes.

Senses:
1. definition=financial assistance in time of need
2. definition=something that aids or promotes well-being | synonyms=welfare | examples=for the benefit of all
3. definition=a performance to raise money for a charitable cause

reasoning_content:
*   Context: A passage discussing Republican vs. Democratic representatives, "local benefit-seeking," "bringing home the bacon," and "local benefits."
    *   Target word: "benefits" (marked with `<t></t>`).
    *   Specific sentence: "...such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local <t>benefits</t>."

    *   Sense 1: financial assistance in time of need (e.g., unemployment benefits, welfare checks).
    *   Sense 2: something that aids or promotes well-being | synonyms=welfare | examples=for the benefit of all.
    *   Sense 3: a performance to raise money for a charitable cause (e.g., a benefit concert).

    *   The text talks about "local benefit-seeking" and "bringing home the bacon."
    *   "Bringing home the bacon" in a political context refers to pork-barrel spending—securing government funds, projects, or advantages for one's own district.
    *   These "benefits" are advantages, gains, or resources that aid the well-being or economic status of the local constituency.
    *   Sense 1 (financial assistance in time of need) is too narrow. While it involves money, it's specifically for "need" (like social security or welfare), whereas "bringing home the bacon" refers to general infrastructure, grants, or projects.
    *   Sense 3 (charity performance) is completely irrelevant.
    *   Sense 2 (something that aids or promotes well-being) is the broadest and most fitting. In this context, "benefits" refers to the positive outcomes or advantages (economic or otherwise) brought to the district.

    *   Does "something that aids or promotes well-being" fit "local benefits" in the context of political pork-barrel spending? Yes. It refers to the advantages gained.


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

Context: If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The <t>individual</t> voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things.

Senses:
1. definition=being or characteristic of a single thing or person | synonyms=single | examples=individual drops of rain; please mark the individual pages
2. definition=separate and distinct from others of the same kind | synonyms=case-by-case, item-by-item | examples=mark the individual pages; on a case-by-case basis
3. definition=characteristic of or meant for a single person or thing | synonyms=single | examples=an individual serving; single occupancy
4. definition=concerning one person exclusively | synonyms=private | examples=we all have individual cars; each room has a private bath

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "The <t>individual</t> voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."
    *   Target word: "individual"
    *   Surrounding text: Discusses voters' incentives in Congressional vs. Presidential races. It talks about the "individual voter's standing" being enhanced.

    *   Sense 1: "being or characteristic of a single thing or person" (synonym: single). Example: "individual drops of rain".
    *   Sense 2: "separate and distinct from others of the same kind" (synonym: case-by-case, item-by-item). Example: "mark the individual pages".
    *   Sense 3: "characteristic of or meant for a single person or thing" (synonym: single). Example: "an individual serving".
    *   Sense 4: "concerning one person exclusively" (synonym: private). Example: "we all have individual cars".

    *   The sentence is "The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."
    *   Here, "individual" modifies "voter". It refers to a single voter as opposed to the collective group of voters.
    *   Is it "separate and distinct" (Sense 2)? Not exactly.
    *   Is it "meant for a single person" (Sense 3)? No.
    *   Is it "concerning one person exclusively/private" (Sense 4)? No.
    *   Is it "being or characteristic of a single thing or person" (Sense 1)? Yes. It refers to the single, single person (the voter).

    *   Sense 1: "being or characteristic of a single thing or person" -> "The individual voter" = the single voter.
    *   Sense 2: "separate and distinct from others of the same kind" -> This often refers to treating things separately (e.g., "individual attention").
    *   Sense 3: "meant for a single person" -> "individual serving".
    *   Sense 4: "private" -> "individual cars".

    In the phrase "the individual voter", "individual" emphasizes the single person as the unit of analysis in the economic theory (prisoner's dilemma). This aligns best with Sense 1.

    *Self-Correction/Refinement:*
    Wait, let's look at Sense 1 and 2 again.
    Sense 1: "being or characteristic of a single thing or person" (single).
    Sense 2: "separate and distinct from others of the same kind" (case-by-case).
    "The individual voter" means "each single voter". This fits Sense 1.

    Let's check if it could be Sense 2. "Separate and distinct from others of the same kind". If the text meant "treating each voter separately", it might be Sense 2. But here it's describing the standing of a single voter.

    Let's check Sense 1 examples: "individual drops of rain". "Individual voter" is very similar to "individual drops".

    Sense 1 seems the most accurate.


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

Context: If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's <t>standing</t> consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things.

Senses:
1. definition=social or financial or professional status or reputation | examples=of equal standing; a member in good standing
2. definition=an ordered listing of scores or results showing the relative positions of competitors (individuals or teams) in a sporting event
3. definition=the act of assuming or maintaining an erect upright position

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "The individual voter's <t>standing</t> consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."
    *   Surrounding text: Discusses economic theory, prisoner's dilemma, voting for Congress vs. White House, local benefits, and lower taxes.
    *   Specific sentence: "The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."

    *   Sense 1: "social or financial or professional status or reputation" (e.g., "of equal standing", "member in good standing").
    *   Sense 2: "an ordered listing of scores or results showing the relative positions of competitors... in a sporting event" (e.g., league standings).
    *   Sense 3: "the act of assuming or maintaining an erect upright position" (e.g., standing up).

    *   Does "standing" refer to a sports ranking (Sense 2)? No.
    *   Does "standing" refer to physically standing up (Sense 3)? No.
    *   Does "standing" refer to the voter's financial or social status/position (Sense 1)? Yes. In this context, "standing" refers to the voter's overall economic position or well-being (financial status) resulting from lower taxes.

    *   The word "standing" here means the voter's relative financial position or status. This fits Sense 1.


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

Context: If these assumptions hold, voters in races for Congress face what in economic theory is called a prisoner's dilemma and have an incentive, at the margin, to lean Democratic. If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be <t>enhanced</t> through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things.

Senses:
1. definition=increase | synonyms=heighten, raise | examples=This will enhance your enjoyment; heighten the tension
2. definition=make better or more attractive | examples=This sauce will enhance the flavor of the meat

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "The individual voter's standing consequently will be <t>enhanced</t> through lower taxes."
    *   Target word: "enhanced"
    *   Senses:
        1.  increase (heighten, raise)
        2.  make better or more attractive

    *   The sentence discusses a voter's "standing" (their position, status, or overall situation) being "enhanced" through lower taxes.
    *   Lower taxes generally improve a person's financial situation or overall well-being/standing.
    *   Does "enhanced" here mean "increased" (Sense 1) or "made better/improved" (Sense 2)?

    *   Sense 1 (increase/heighten/raise): Usually refers to quantity, intensity, or degree (e.g., enhance enjoyment, heighten tension).
    *   Sense 2 (make better or more attractive): Refers to quality, value, or overall status (e.g., enhance flavor, enhance beauty, enhance reputation).

    *   "Standing" in this context refers to the voter's relative position or situation.
    *   If their standing is "enhanced" by lower taxes, it means their situation is *improved* or *made better*.
    *   While "increase" (Sense 1) might seem plausible (increasing their standing), "standing" is more of a qualitative state or a relative position than a numerical quantity. "Improving" or "making better" fits the context of "standing" more naturally.
    *   Let's re-evaluate: "The individual voter's standing consequently will be [increased/improved] through lower taxes."
    *   Comparing the two senses:
        *   Sense 1: increase (heighten, raise).
        *   Sense 2: make better or more attractive.
    *   In the context of "standing" (status/position), "enhanced" typically means improved or made better.

    *   Sense 1 examples: "enhance your enjoyment" (increase the amount of enjoyment), "heighten the tension" (increase the level of tension).
    *   Sense 2 examples: "enhance the flavor" (make the flavor better).
    *   "Standing" is similar to "flavor" or "reputation" in that you make it *better*, not necessarily *more* of it in a quantitative sense.

    *   Wait, let me look at the senses again.
    *   1. increase | synonyms=heighten, raise
    *   2. make better or more attractive
    *   If someone's standing is enhanced, is it "increased" or "made better"?
    *   Usually, "standing" (status) is something that is improved.
    *   Let's check if "increase standing" is a common phrase. "Increase one's standing" is used, but "improve one's standing" is more common.
    *   Looking at the provided senses:
        *   Sense 1 is about intensity/amount.
        *   Sense 2 is about quality/attractiveness/value.
    *   Lower taxes make the voter's situation *better*.

    *   "The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."
    *   Does this mean their standing is *increased* (Sense 1) or *made better* (Sense 2)?
    *   In many dictionaries, "enhance" is defined as "to intensify, increase, or further" (Sense 1) or "to improve the quality, amount, or value of" (Sense 2).
    *   Actually, looking at the provided definitions:
        1. increase (heighten, raise)
        2. make better or more attractive
    *   If the standing is "enhanced," it is made better.

    *   Sense 1: "enhance your enjoyment" (increase the degree of enjoyment).
    *   Sense 2: "enhance the flavor" (make the flavor better).
    *   "Standing" (status/position) is more like "flavor" (quality) than "enjoyment" (intensity/amount).

    *   Wait, let me think again. If I have a "standing" in a community, and it is "enhanced," it means it has been improved.
    *   Is "improved" closer to "increase" or "make better"? Definitely "make better."

    *   Sense 1: increase (heighten, raise)
    *   Sense 2: make better or more attractive
    *   "Standing" = status/position.
    *   Enhanced standing = improved status.
    *   Improved = make better.

    *   Could "standing" be seen as a quantity that is increased? Not really.
    *   Could "enhanced" mean "increased" here? "The voter's standing will be increased." It's possible, but "made better" is a more precise fit for "standing."

    *   Sense 1: increase (heighten, raise)
    *   Sense 2: make better or more attractive
    *   Context: "The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes."
    *   If taxes are lower, the voter is better off. Their standing (their situation/position) is improved.
    *   "Make better" (Sense 2) fits "improved" perfectly.


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

Context: If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly <t>simple</t>, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "While this theory is exceedingly <t>simple</t>, it appears to explain several things."
    *   The word "simple" describes a "theory."
    *   The context suggests that despite the theory's lack of complexity (it's "exceedingly simple"), it is effective in explaining several phenomena (ticket splitting, etc.).

    *   Sense 1: "having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved" (e.g., a simple problem).
    *   Sense 2: "easy and not involved or complicated" (e.g., an elementary problem in statistics).
    *   Sense 3: "apart from anything else; without additions or modifications" (e.g., the bare facts).
    *   Sense 4: "exhibiting childlike simplicity and credulity" (e.g., childlike trust).
    *   Sense 5: "lacking mental capacity and subtlety" (e.g., dim-witted).
    *   Sense 6: "(botany) of leaf shapes" (not applicable).
    *   Sense 7: "unornamented" (e.g., a simple country schoolhouse).

    *   The theory is described as "simple."
    *   Is it "easy" (Sense 2) or "not complex" (Sense 1)?
    *   In the context of a theory, "simple" usually means it doesn't have many complex variables or assumptions (not complex/complicated).
    *   Sense 1 focuses on the structure (few parts, not complex).
    *   Sense 2 focuses on the ease of understanding or execution (easy, elementary).
    *   While these are close, "a simple theory" usually refers to its lack of complexity (Sense 1) rather than it being "easy" to solve like a math problem (Sense 2). However, let's look closer.
    *   "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things." This contrast ("While... it appears to explain several things") suggests that the simplicity (lack of complexity) might be expected to limit its explanatory power, but it doesn't. This aligns best with "not complex or complicated" (Sense 1).

    *   Sense 1: "not complex or complicated or involved" -> Fits perfectly.
    *   Sense 2: "easy and not involved or complicated" -> Also fits, but "easy" is more about the effort required to understand/do, whereas "not complex" is about the nature of the theory itself.
    *   Sense 3: "bare/mere" -> Doesn't fit.
    *   Sense 4: "childlike" -> Doesn't fit.
    *   Sense 5: "dim-witted" -> Doesn't fit.
    *   Sense 6: "botany" -> Doesn't fit.
    *   Sense 7: "unornamented" -> Doesn't fit.

    *   Comparing Sense 1 and Sense 2:
        *   Sense 1: "having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved"
        *   Sense 2: "easy and not involved or complicated"
        *   A theory that is "simple" in the sense that it explains a lot with very little (Occam's razor style) is "not complex."

    *   Let's re-read the context: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things."
    *   This is a classic description of a model or theory that is elegant because it is not complex (Sense 1).

    *   Sense 1: "not complex or complicated or involved"
    *   Sense 2: "easy and not involved or complicated"
    *   In many dictionaries, these are very similar. However, Sense 1 is more about the *structure* (few parts), and Sense 2 is more about the *difficulty* (easy). A theory's simplicity usually refers to its structure.

    *   Wait, let me look at the examples:
        *   Sense 1: "a simple problem; simple mechanisms"
        *   Sense 2: "an elementary problem in statistics; elementary, my dear Watson"
    *   A "simple theory" is more like a "simple mechanism" (Sense 1) than "elementary, my dear Watson" (Sense 2).

    *   The most accurate sense for a theory that is "not complex" is Sense 1.


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

Context: If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it <t>appears</t> to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it <t>appears</t> to explain several things."
    *   Target word: "appears"

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

    *   The sentence is: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things."
    *   Here, "appears" means that based on the evidence or the way it looks, the theory seems to explain several things.
    *   Comparing Sense 1 and Sense 4:
        *   Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect" (e.g., "This appears to be a very difficult problem").
        *   Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent" (e.g., "It seems that he is very gifted").
    *   In the context "it appears to explain several things," the theory *seems* to do something. This is very close to both 1 and 4.
    *   Let's look closer at the examples.
        *   Sense 1 example: "This appears to be a very difficult problem." (The problem *seems* to be difficult).
        *   Sense 4 example: "It seems that he is very gifted." (It *appears* that he is gifted).
    *   The structure "it appears to [verb]" is very similar to "it seems to [verb]".
    *   Wait, let's re-evaluate Sense 1 vs Sense 4.
        *   Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect"
        *   Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent"
    *   "It appears to explain several things" means it *seems* to be the case that it explains several things.
    *   Looking at the provided examples again:
        *   Sense 1: "This appears to be a very difficult problem." (The subject is the problem).
        *   Sense 4: "It seems that he is very gifted." (The subject is the dummy 'it').
    *   In the context sentence: "it [the theory] appears to explain several things." The subject is "it" (referring to the theory).
    *   If the subject is the thing that seems to be a certain way, it aligns more with Sense 1 ("This appears to be...").
    *   If the sentence were "It appears that this theory explains several things," it would align more with Sense 4.
    *   Let's check Sense 1 again: "give a certain impression... look, seem". "The theory appears to explain several things" = "The theory seems to explain several things."
    *   Let's check Sense 4 again: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent".
    *   Actually, in many dictionaries, these are very similar. Let's look at the nuance.
    *   Sense 1: "give a certain impression" (outward aspect).
    *   Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent".
    *   "The theory appears to explain several things" is a claim about the probability or apparent truth of the theory's explanatory power.
    *   Let's re-read Sense 1 example: "This appears to be a very difficult problem." This is almost identical in structure to "it [the theory] appears to explain several things."
    *   Let's re-read Sense 4 example: "It seems that he is very gifted." This uses the "It seems that..." construction.
    *   The context sentence is "it [the theory] appears to explain...". This matches the structure of Sense 1's example ("This appears to be...").

    *   Sense 1: Subject + appear + to be/do something. (The theory appears to explain...)
    *   Sense 4: It + appear + that... (It appears that the theory explains...)
    *   The context uses the first structure.

    *   Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect"
    *   Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent"
    *   Is "explaining several things" an "outward aspect" or "true/probable"? It's more about the apparent truth/probability of the theory's effectiveness.
    *   However, the grammatical structure strongly points to Sense 1 based on the examples provided.
    *   Let's double-check. "This appears to be a very difficult problem" (Sense 1). "It appears to explain several things."
    *   If I say "He appears to be tired," is that Sense 1 or 4? Usually Sense 1.
    *   If I say "It appears that he is tired," is that Sense 1 or 4? Usually Sense 4.
    *   The context is "it [the theory] appears to explain". This matches the "He appears to be tired" / "This appears to be a difficult problem" pattern.

    *   Sense 1: "give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect"
    *   Sense 4: "seem to be true, probable, or apparent"
    *   Wait, "This appears to be a very difficult problem" (Sense 1 example) is almost exactly the same as "It appears to explain several things."
    *   Let's look at Sense 4 again: "It seems that he is very gifted."
    *   The key difference in the examples is the subject. Sense 1 has a specific subject ("This", "She"). Sense 4 has the dummy subject "It".
    *   In the context: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it [the theory] appears to explain several things."
    *   The "it" refers to "this theory". So the subject is "the theory".
    *   Therefore, it matches the pattern of Sense 1.

    *   Context: "it [the theory] appears to explain several things."
    *   Sense 1: "This appears to be a very difficult problem." (Subject = This/Problem)
    *   Sense 4: "It seems that he is very gifted." (Subject = Dummy 'It')
    *   The context subject is "the theory", not a dummy 'it'.
    *   Conclusion: Sense 1.


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

Context: If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to <t>explain</t> several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

Senses:
1. definition=make plain and comprehensible | synonyms=explicate | examples=He explained the laws of physics to his students
2. definition=define | examples=The committee explained their plan for fund-raising to the Dean
3. definition=serve as a reason or cause or justification of | synonyms=excuse | examples=Your need to sleep late does not excuse your late arrival at work; Her recent divorce may explain her reluctance to date again

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to <t>explain</t> several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased..."
    *   Target word: "explain"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  Make plain and comprehensible (explicate).
        2.  Define (e.g., a plan).
        3.  Serve as a reason or cause or justification of (excuse).

    *   The sentence says: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things."
    *   The "things" being explained are phenomena (like why ticket splitting has increased).
    *   The theory provides a *reason* or *cause* for why these phenomena occur.

    *   Sense 1: "make plain and comprehensible" (teaching/clarifying). While a theory makes things comprehensible, the core function here is providing the *reason* for the observation.
    *   Sense 2: "define" (detailing a plan). Not applicable here.
    *   Sense 3: "serve as a reason or cause or justification of". This fits perfectly. The theory serves as the reason/cause for the observed pattern of ticket splitting.

    *   "Her recent divorce may explain her reluctance to date again" (Sense 3) is structurally similar to "this theory... appears to explain several things [like why ticket splitting has increased]". In both cases, X is the cause/reason for Y.


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

Context: If they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain <t>several</t> things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

Senses:
1. definition=(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many | examples=several letters came in the mail; several people were injured in the accident
2. definition=considered individually | synonyms=respective, various | examples=the respective club members; specialists in their several fields
3. definition=distinct and individual | examples=three several times

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain <t>several</t> things."
    *   Target word: "several"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  Indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many (count nouns).
        2.  Considered individually (synonyms: respective, various).
        3.  Distinct and individual.

    *   The sentence is: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things."
    *   "Several things" refers to a number of things (more than a few, but not necessarily a huge amount).
    *   The text then goes on to list these things (starting with "First, why ticket splitting...").

    *   Sense 1: "of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many". This fits perfectly. "Several things" means a few different things.
    *   Sense 2: "considered individually" (respective, various). This doesn't fit the usage "explain several things". It would be used like "their several opinions" (their individual opinions).
    *   Sense 3: "distinct and individual". This is an archaic or very specific usage (e.g., "three several times"). It doesn't fit here.

    *   The word "several" in "several things" is used as a quantifier meaning "more than two but not many". This matches Sense 1.


[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 they put a Republican into office, not only will they acquire less in terms of local benefits but their selected legislator will be relatively powerless to prevent other legislators from "bringing home the bacon "to their respective constituencies. Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several <t>things</t>. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe.

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: "While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several <t>things</t>."
    *   The word "things" refers to the phenomena or points that the theory explains (specifically, the increase and pattern of ticket splitting).

    *   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., "a thing of the spirit")
    *   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., "to 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 is...")
    *   10. a special objective (e.g., "the thing is to stay in bounds")
    *   11. a persistent illogical feeling (e.g., "he has a thing about seafood")
    *   12. a separate and self-contained entity

    *   The sentence says the theory explains "several things."
    *   The "things" being explained are facts, phenomena, or points of evidence (like ticket splitting).
    *   Looking at the senses:
        *   Sense 6: "a vaguely specified concern | synonyms=matter, affair". "Explain several matters" fits well.
        *   Sense 12: "a separate and self-contained entity". This is the most general definition of "thing".
        *   Sense 8: "an entity that is not named specifically". This is close, but "things" here refers to points of evidence/phenomena.

    *   "Explain several things" usually means "explain several matters" or "explain several points/phenomena."
    *   Sense 6 (matter, affair) fits the context of "matters to be explained."
    *   Let's re-evaluate Sense 12 (separate and self-contained entity). While technically true, Sense 6 is more specific to the usage of "things" as "matters" or "points."
    *   Wait, let's look at Sense 6 again: "a vaguely specified concern | synonyms=matter, affair | examples=several matters to attend to; it is none of your affair".
    *   Is "explaining several things" the same as "attending to several matters"? Not exactly.
    *   Let's look at Sense 12 again: "a separate and self-contained entity". This is very broad.
    *   Let's look at Sense 8: "an entity that is not named specifically". The "things" are not named *yet* (they are named in the following sentence).

    *   "Explain several things" -> "Explain several facts/phenomena/points."
    *   If I replace "things" with "matters" (Sense 6): "it appears to explain several matters." (Possible)
    *   If I replace "things" with "entities" (Sense 12): "it appears to explain several entities." (Less likely)
    *   If I replace "things" with "unnamed entities" (Sense 8): "it appears to explain several [unnamed entities]." (Possible)

    *   Sense 6: "a vaguely specified concern | synonyms=matter, affair".
    *   Sense 12: "a separate and self-contained entity".
    *   In many dictionaries, "thing" used as "a matter, situation, or detail" is a common sense. Sense 6's "matter, affair" aligns with this.

    *   "Explain several things" is a very common way to say "explain several points/facts."
    *   Does "matter" (Sense 6) fit "point/fact"? Yes, in the sense of "the matter at hand."
    *   Let's check if there's a better fit.
    *   Sense 1: special situation. (No)
    *   Sense 2: action. (No)
    *   Sense 3: abstraction. (No)
    *   Sense 4: artifact. (No)
    *   Sense 5: event. (No)
    *   Sense 7: statement. (No)
    *   Sense 8: entity not named specifically. (Maybe, but "things" here are phenomena, not just "entities").
    *   Sense 9: attribute/quality. (No)
    *   Sense 10: objective. (No)
    *   Sense 11: feeling. (No)
    *   Sense 12: separate entity. (Too broad).

    *   Sense 6: "a vaguely specified concern | synonyms=matter, affair".
    *   If we use "matter" as a synonym for "thing" in "explain several things," it works: "explain several matters."

    *   Wait, let me re-read Sense 6's examples: "several matters to attend to; it is none of your affair". These are more about "business" or "concerns."
    *   Is there another sense? Let's look at Sense 12 again. "a separate and self-contained entity".
    *   Actually, in many NLP datasets (like WordNet), "thing" as in "a fact or point" is often categorized under a general sense or a "matter" sense.
    *   Let's reconsider Sense 6. "Matter" can mean "a subject under consideration." "Explain several matters" = "Explain several subjects under consideration." This fits.

    *   "Explain several things"
    *   "Things" = the reasons/facts/phenomena.
    *   Sense 6: "a vaguely specified concern | synonyms=matter, affair".
    *   Sense 12: "a separate and self-contained entity".
    *   If I have to choose between 6 and 12, 6 is more specific to the "matter/point" meaning.

    *   Sense 6: "a vaguely specified concern | synonyms=matter, affair".
    *   Example: "several matters to attend to".
    *   Context: "explain several things".
    *   This matches the "matter" synonym well.

    *   Sense 8: "an entity that is not named specifically".
    *   The "things" are not named in the sentence they appear in, but they are named immediately after. This is a common use of "thing" as a placeholder. However, "explain several things" usually refers to the *content* (the facts), not just the fact that they are unnamed.

    *   Sense 6 is the most likely intended answer for "things" meaning "matters/points/facts."


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has <t>increased</t> and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=become bigger or greater in amount | examples=The amount of work increased
2. definition=make bigger or more | examples=The boss finally increased her salary; The university increased the number of students it admitted

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "First, why ticket splitting has <t>increased</t> and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century..."
    *   Target word: "increased"
    *   Senses:
        1.  become bigger or greater in amount (intransitive)
        2.  make bigger or more (transitive)

    *   Sentence: "First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century..."
    *   Subject: "ticket splitting"
    *   Verb: "has increased"
    *   Structure: [Subject] + [has increased].
    *   Meaning: The occurrence or frequency of ticket splitting has become greater.

    *   Sense 1: "become bigger or greater in amount" (Intransitive). Example: "The amount of work increased."
    *   Sense 2: "make bigger or more" (Transitive). Example: "The boss finally increased her salary."

    *   In the context, "ticket splitting" is the thing that is becoming more frequent/greater. There is no direct object being acted upon by "increased".
    *   Therefore, it is used intransitively.
    *   This matches Sense 1.


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and <t>taken</t> the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

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

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "First, why ticket splitting has increased and <t>taken</t> the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century..."
    *   Target word: "taken"
    *   Phrase: "taken the peculiar pattern that it has"

    *   The sentence discusses "ticket splitting" (a voting behavior) and how it has "taken the peculiar pattern that it has."
    *   This means ticket splitting has *assumed* or *acquired* a specific form or characteristic.

    *   1: carry out (take action) - No.
    *   2: require time/space (took three hours) - No.
    *   3: take somebody somewhere (lead/direct) - No.
    *   4: get into one's hands (take physically) - No.
    *   5: take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect (assume, acquire, adopt, take on) - Examples: "His voice took on a sad tone; The story took a new turn." - This matches "taken the peculiar pattern."
    *   6: interpret something (read) - No.
    *   7: take something with oneself (bring) - No.
    *   8: take into possession - No.
    *   9: travel by means of transportation - No.
    *   10: pick out/select - No.
    *   11: receive willingly (accept) - No.
    *   12: assume positions or roles (fill/occupy) - No.
    *   13: take into consideration for exemplifying (consider) - No.
    *   14: require as useful/proper (necessitate) - No.
    *   15: experience or feel (take a test) - No.
    *   16: make a film/photograph - No.
    *   17: remove something - No.
    *   18: consume regularly - No.
    *   19: accept or undergo unwillingly (submit) - No.
    *   20: make use of or accept for some purpose (take a risk) - No.
    *   21: take by force - No.
    *   22: occupy or take on (assume, strike, take up) - Example: "He assumes the lotus position; She took her seat on the stage." (This is more about physical position/posture).
    *   23: admit into a group - No.
    *   24: ascertain by measuring - No.
    *   25: be a student of - No.
    *   26: take as an undesirable consequence (claim/exact) - No.
    *   27: head into a specified direction - No.
    *   28: point or cause to go towards - No.
    *   29: be seized or affected - No.
    *   30: have with oneself - No.
    *   31: engage for service (lease/rent) - No.
    *   32: receive or obtain regularly (subscribe) - No.
    *   33: buy, select - No.
    *   34: get into a position of having (safety/comfort) - No.
    *   35: have sex with - No.
    *   36: lay claim to (claim credit) - No.
    *   37: be designed to hold or take (dye) - No.
    *   38: be capable of holding or containing - No.
    *   39: develop a habit - No.
    *   40: proceed along in a vehicle - No.
    *   41: obtain by winning - No.
    *   42: be stricken by an illness - No.

    *   Sense 5: "take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect | synonyms=assume, acquire, adopt, take on | examples=His voice took on a sad tone; The story took a new turn"
    *   Context: "ticket splitting has... taken the peculiar pattern that it has"
    *   Comparison: "taken the peculiar pattern" is very similar to "took a new turn" or "took on a sad tone." It describes the form or aspect that the behavior (ticket splitting) has assumed.

    *   Sense 22: "occupy or take on | synonyms=assume, strike, take up | examples=He assumes the lotus position; She took her seat on the stage"
    *   Sense 22 is more about physical positions or roles. Sense 5 is about attributes, forms, or aspects. A "pattern" is an attribute or form.

Sense 5 is the best fit.


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the <t>past</t> half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=earlier than the present time; no longer current | examples=time past; his youth is past
2. definition=of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office | synonyms=preceding, retiring | examples=a retiring member of the board

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the <t>past</t> half century..."
    *   Target word: "past"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  earlier than the present time; no longer current (e.g., time past; his youth is past)
        2.  of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office (e.g., a retiring member of the board)

    *   The phrase is "the past half century".
    *   "Half century" refers to a period of 50 years.
    *   "Past" here modifies "half century", indicating the 50 years preceding the present moment.

    *   Sense 1: "earlier than the present time; no longer current". This fits perfectly. The "past half century" is the time earlier than the present.
    *   Sense 2: "of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office". This does not fit. A "half century" is not a person holding an office.

    *   The correct sense is 1.


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the <t>election</t> of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=a vote to select the winner of a position or political office | examples=the results of the election will be announced tonight
2. definition=the act of selecting someone or something; the exercise of deliberate choice | examples=her election of medicine as a profession
3. definition=the status or fact of being elected | examples=they celebrated his election
4. definition=the predestination of some individuals as objects of divine mercy (especially as conceived by Calvinists)

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "Prior to the <t>election</t> of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal..."
    *   Target word: "election"

    *   Sense 1: a vote to select the winner of a position or political office (the event/process).
    *   Sense 2: the act of selecting someone or something; the exercise of deliberate choice (general selection).
    *   Sense 3: the status or fact of being elected (the result/state of having been chosen).
    *   Sense 4: predestination (religious context).

    *   The phrase is "the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president".
    *   This refers to the event/process where Franklin Roosevelt was voted into office.
    *   Comparing Sense 1 and Sense 3:
        *   Sense 1: "a vote to select the winner" (the event).
        *   Sense 3: "the status or fact of being elected" (the result).
    *   In "Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt", it usually refers to the event of the election (the 1932 election) or the act of him being elected.
    *   Let's look at the examples:
        *   Sense 1: "the results of the election will be announced tonight" (The event/process).
        *   Sense 3: "they celebrated his election" (The fact that he won).
    *   "Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt" most naturally refers to the time before the event of his election took place.

    *   Is it the *vote* (Sense 1) or the *fact* of being elected (Sense 3)?
    *   Usually, "the election of [Person] as [Office]" refers to the process/event of electing them.
    *   If it meant the *fact* of being elected, it would be more like "Since his election, he has..."
    *   "Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt" refers to the time before the 1932 election occurred.

    *   Sense 1: a vote to select the winner of a position or political office.
    *   Sense 3: the status or fact of being elected.
    *   In the context "Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president", it refers to the event/process of electing him.

    *   Wait, let's re-evaluate. "The election of Franklin Roosevelt" could be seen as the *act* of electing him (Sense 1) or the *fact* that he was elected (Sense 3).
    *   However, "Prior to the election" almost always refers to the time before the voting event happened.
    *   Let's check Sense 1 again: "a vote to select the winner of a position or political office".
    *   Let's check Sense 3 again: "the status or fact of being elected".
    *   If the sentence is "Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt", it means before the event occurred.

    *   Sense 1: The event/process.
    *   Sense 3: The result/state.
    *   "Prior to the election" -> Before the event.

    *   Sense 1 fits best.


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as <t>president</t> and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=an executive officer of a firm or corporation
2. definition=the person who holds the office of head of state of the United States government | synonyms=President of the United States, United States President, Chief Executive | examples=the President likes to jog every morning
3. definition=the chief executive of a republic
4. definition=the officer who presides at the meetings of an organization | synonyms=chairman, chairwoman, chair, chairperson | examples=address your remarks to the chairperson
5. definition=the head administrative officer of a college or university | synonyms=prexy
6. definition=the office of the United States head of state | synonyms=President of the United States, Chief Executive | examples=a President is elected every four years

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as <t>president</t> and the advent of the New Deal..."
    *   Target word: "president"
    *   Contextual clues: "Franklin Roosevelt", "election", "New Deal", "White House", "national policy making", "GOP president".

    *   Sense 1: Executive officer of a firm or corporation. (Incorrect)
    *   Sense 2: The person who holds the office of head of state of the United States government. (Fits: Franklin Roosevelt was the person holding this office).
    *   Sense 3: The chief executive of a republic. (General term, but Sense 2 is more specific to the US context provided).
    *   Sense 4: Officer who presides at meetings. (Incorrect)
    *   Sense 5: Head administrative officer of a college/university. (Incorrect)
    *   Sense 6: The office of the United States head of state. (This refers to the *office* itself, whereas the context "election of Franklin Roosevelt as president" refers to the *person* filling the role).

    *   The sentence says "election of Franklin Roosevelt as president".
    *   Franklin Roosevelt is a person.
    *   Sense 2 refers to the person who holds the office.
    *   Sense 6 refers to the office itself.
    *   Usually, "elected as [role]" refers to the person assuming that role.

    *   Sense 2: "the person who holds the office of head of state of the United States government"
    *   Sense 3: "the chief executive of a republic"
    *   Since the context specifically mentions the White House, GOP, and Franklin Roosevelt, Sense 2 is the most precise fit.

    *   Is it Sense 2 or Sense 6?
    *   "election of Franklin Roosevelt as president" -> Roosevelt became the person who holds the office.
    *   If it were "the presidency", it would be Sense 6.
    *   Therefore, Sense 2 is correct.


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the <t>advent</t> of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=arrival that has been awaited (especially of something momentous) | synonyms=coming | examples=the advent of the computer
2. definition=the season including the four Sundays preceding Christmas
3. definition=(Christian theology) the reappearance of Jesus as judge for the Last Judgment | synonyms=Second Coming, Second Coming of Christ, Second Advent, Parousia

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the <t>advent</t> of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in society..."
    *   Target word: "advent"
    *   Senses provided:
        1.  Arrival that has been awaited (especially of something momentous). Example: "the advent of the computer".
        2.  The season including the four Sundays preceding Christmas.
        3.  (Christian theology) the reappearance of Jesus as judge for the Last Judgment.

    *   The sentence refers to the "advent of the New Deal".
    *   The "New Deal" was a series of programs, public work projects, financial reforms, and regulations enacted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
    *   In this context, "advent" refers to the arrival or beginning of the New Deal era.

    *   Sense 1: Arrival of something momentous. (Fits perfectly: the New Deal was a momentous arrival/beginning).
    *   Sense 2: Christmas season. (Does not fit).
    *   Sense 3: Second Coming of Christ. (Does not fit).

    *   The correct sense is 1.


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, <t>government</t> occupied a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=the organization that is the governing authority of a political unit | synonyms=authorities, regime | examples=the government reduced taxes; the matter was referred to higher authorities
2. definition=the act of governing; exercising authority | synonyms=governing, governance, government activity, administration | examples=regulations for the governing of state prisons; he had considerable experience of government
3. definition=(government) the system or form by which a community or other political unit is governed | examples=tyrannical government
4. definition=the study of government of states and other political units | synonyms=politics, political science

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, <t>government</t> occupied a much smaller role in society..."
    *   Target word: "government"

    *   Sense 1: The organization that is the governing authority of a political unit (e.g., "the government reduced taxes").
    *   Sense 2: The act of governing; exercising authority (e.g., "regulations for the governing of state prisons").
    *   Sense 3: The system or form by which a community or other political unit is governed (e.g., "tyrannical government").
    *   Sense 4: The study of government of states and other political units (e.g., "politics, political science").

    *   The sentence says "government occupied a much smaller role in society".
    *   This refers to the entity/organization (the state/the governing body) and its scope of activity/influence.
    *   It's not talking about the *act* of governing (Sense 2), the *system/form* of government (Sense 3), or the *study* of government (Sense 4).
    *   It refers to the governing authority/organization as a whole.

    *   Sense 1: "the organization that is the governing authority of a political unit". This fits perfectly. The "government" (the organization/entity) had a smaller role.


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government <t>occupied</t> a much smaller role in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=keep busy with | synonyms=busy | examples=She busies herself with her butterfly collection
2. definition=live (in a certain place) | synonyms=reside, lodge in | examples=She resides in Princeton; he occupies two rooms on the top floor
3. definition=occupy the whole of | synonyms=fill | examples=The liquid fills the container
4. definition=be on the mind of | synonyms=concern, interest, worry | examples=I worry about the second Germanic consonant shift
5. definition=march aggressively into another's territory by military force for the purposes of conquest and occupation | synonyms=invade | examples=Hitler invaded Poland on September 1, 1939
6. definition=require (time or space) | synonyms=take, use up | examples=It took three hours to get to work this morning; This event occupied a very short time
7. definition=consume all of one's attention or time | synonyms=absorb, engross, engage | examples=Her interest in butterflies absorbs her completely
8. definition=assume, as of positions or roles | synonyms=fill, take | examples=She took the job as director of development; he occupies the position of manager

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...government <t>occupied</t> a much smaller role in society..."
    *   Target word: "occupied"
    *   Surrounding phrase: "government occupied a much smaller role in society"

    *   Sense 1: keep busy with (e.g., "She busies herself with her butterfly collection") - *Incorrect.*
    *   Sense 2: live (in a certain place) (e.g., "he occupies two rooms") - *Incorrect.*
    *   Sense 3: occupy the whole of / fill (e.g., "The liquid fills the container") - *Incorrect.*
    *   Sense 4: be on the mind of / concern (e.g., "I worry about...") - *Incorrect.*
    *   Sense 5: march aggressively into another's territory / invade (e.g., "Hitler invaded Poland") - *Incorrect.*
    *   Sense 6: require (time or space) (e.g., "This event occupied a very short time") - *Incorrect.*
    *   Sense 7: consume all of one's attention or time / absorb (e.g., "Her interest in butterflies absorbs her") - *Incorrect.*
    *   Sense 8: assume, as of positions or roles / fill, take (e.g., "he occupies the position of manager") - *Correct.*

    *   The phrase "occupied a much smaller role in society" means the government *filled* or *held* a smaller role. This matches Sense 8 ("assume, as of positions or roles | synonyms=fill, take").


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller <t>role</t> in society and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group | synonyms=function, office, part | examples=the function of a teacher; the government must do its part
2. definition=an actor's portrayal of someone in a play | synonyms=character, theatrical role, part, persona | examples=she played the part of Desdemona
3. definition=what something is used for | synonyms=function, purpose, use | examples=the function of an auger is to bore holes; ballet is beautiful but what use is it?
4. definition=normal or customary activity of a person in a particular social setting | examples=what is your role on the team?

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...government occupied a much smaller <t>role</t> in society..."
    *   Senses:
        1.  Actions/activities assigned/required/expected of a person or group (function, office, part). Example: "the function of a teacher".
        2.  Actor's portrayal (character, persona). Example: "part of Desdemona".
        3.  What something is used for (function, purpose, use). Example: "function of an auger".
        4.  Normal/customary activity of a person in a particular social setting. Example: "role on the team".

    *   The phrase is "government occupied a much smaller role in society".
    *   This refers to the extent of the government's involvement, its functions, and the activities it performs within society.

    *   Sense 1: "the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group". This fits well. The government is a group, and its "role" refers to the functions and activities it performs in society.
    *   Sense 2: "an actor's portrayal". Clearly incorrect.
    *   Sense 3: "what something is used for". This is usually for tools or objects (like an auger). While "function" is a synonym, Sense 1 is more specific to groups/people in a societal context.
    *   Sense 4: "normal or customary activity of a person in a particular social setting". This is more about an individual's position within a small group (like a team).

    *   Sense 1 describes the function or part played by a person or group (like the government) in a larger system (like society).
    *   "Government occupied a much smaller role in society" means the government's function/part/activities were more limited.

    *   Sense 1: "the actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group" -> "the government must do its part".
    *   This matches the context of the government's function in society.


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

Context: Each legislator, after all, is only one out of 535 when it comes to national policy making. In races for the White House, a voter's incentive, at the margin, is to lean Republican. Although a GOP president may limit local benefits to the voter's particular district/state, such a president is also likely to be more effective at preventing other districts/states and their legislators from bringing home the local benefits. The individual voter's standing consequently will be enhanced through lower taxes. While this theory is exceedingly simple, it appears to explain several things. First, why ticket splitting has increased and taken the peculiar pattern that it has over the past half century: Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in <t>society</t> and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe. Second, it explains why voters hold Congress in disdain but generally love their own congressional representatives: Any individual legislator's constituents appreciate the specific benefits that the legislator wins for them but not the overall cost associated with every other legislator doing likewise for his own constituency.

Senses:
1. definition=an extended social group having a distinctive cultural and economic organization
2. definition=a formal association of people with similar interests | synonyms=club, social club, guild, gild, lodge, order | examples=he joined a golf club; they formed a small lunch society
3. definition=the state of being with someone | synonyms=company, companionship, fellowship | examples=he missed their company; he enjoyed the society of his friends
4. definition=the fashionable elite | synonyms=high society, beau monde, smart set, bon ton

reasoning_content:
*   Context: "...Prior to the election of Franklin Roosevelt as president and the advent of the New Deal, government occupied a much smaller role in <t>society</t> and the prisoner's dilemma problem confronting voters in races for Congress was considerably less severe."
    *   Target word: "society"

    *   Sense 1: "an extended social group having a distinctive cultural and economic organization" (General society, the community of people living together in a country/region).
    *   Sense 2: "a formal association of people with similar interests" (Club, guild, etc.).
    *   Sense 3: "the state of being with someone" (Company, companionship).
    *   Sense 4: "the fashionable elite" (High society).

    *   The sentence discusses the role of government in "society" before the New Deal.
    *   It refers to the general population, the social structure, and the overall organization of people within the United States.
    *   It does *not* refer to a specific club (Sense 2), the act of being with someone (Sense 3), or the wealthy elite (Sense 4).
    *   It fits the definition of an extended social group with cultural and economic organization (Sense 1).