To determine the meaning of the underlined word "semiannual" in the given sentence, let's first analyze the provided definition of the prefix "semi-".
The prefix "semi-" can mean:
1. Half in value.
2. Happening once halfway through a specific time period.
Given the context of the sentence, "The women's club held fundraisers on a semiannual basis," we should focus on the second meaning: "happening once halfway through a specific time period."
A year is the specific time period in question here. If something happens once halfway through a year, it means it occurs at the six-month mark and then again at the end of the year. This results in the event occurring twice within one year.
Therefore, "semiannual" translates to twice a year.
Based on this analysis, the correct interpretation of the underlined word "semiannual" is:
- twice a year
