What does it mean to "appropriate" something?

To "appropriate" something typically means to take possession of it, often without the owner's consent. This term can imply a sense of illegitimacy or force in the acquisition. In many contexts, especially in discussions about property or resources, appropriating something may not involve legal ownership or permission, which aligns with the understanding of taking something by force or seizing it.

In contrast, the other options suggest more benign or positive actions. "Using something responsibly" implies a respectful usage that considers the rights of others, while "donating it" and "lending it temporarily" indicate generosity and shared ownership, which do not reflect the connotation of taking or seizing that "appropriate" embodies. Thus, the understanding of "appropriate" hinges on the element of taking control rather than sharing or responsible usage.