Question

read the dictionary entry for diminish.
diminish \diˈminish\\ v

1. to belittle 2. to become less
2. to taper 4. to lessen certain intervals in music

which definition most closely matches the meaning of diminished as used
in paragraph 5?
a definition 1
b definition 3
c definition 2
d definition 4

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze the common usage of "diminished" (past participle of "diminish"). The most general and common meaning of "diminish" is to become less in amount, size, or intensity. Definition 1 (belittle) is about demeaning someone, Definition 3 (taper) is about a gradual narrowing, Definition 4 is specific to music. Definition 2 ("to become less") aligns best with the typical use of "diminished" in most contexts (like "diminished resources" meaning resources became less).

Answer:

C. Definition 2