Question
The word degenerate contains the prefix de-, which means down, away, from, and a root word, generate, which means to create or bring into existence. What is the meaning of the word degenerate as used in the second sentence of paragraph 8?
A to drop into a low level of altitudeto drop into a low level of altitude
B to lose functional ability, as in an organ or limbto lose functional ability, as in an organ or limb
C a person who has declined from a previous standarda person who has declined from a previous standard
D to fall below a normal or desirable level of acceptanceto fall below a normal or desirable level of acceptance
A to drop into a low level of altitudeto drop into a low level of altitude
B to lose functional ability, as in an organ or limbto lose functional ability, as in an organ or limb
C a person who has declined from a previous standarda person who has declined from a previous standard
D to fall below a normal or desirable level of acceptanceto fall below a normal or desirable level of acceptance
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The word "degenerate" in the context of the sentences you provided primarily relates to a decline in quality or function. Given the meanings of the options you've listed, the best fit for the use of "degenerate" as you've presented is:
**B**: to lose functional ability, as in an organ or limb.
This definition captures the essence of "degenerate," particularly in contexts where it refers to a loss of function, health, or vitality, which aligns with the typical usages of the term.
**B**: to lose functional ability, as in an organ or limb.
This definition captures the essence of "degenerate," particularly in contexts where it refers to a loss of function, health, or vitality, which aligns with the typical usages of the term.