What does the term diffuse mean?

The term "diffuse" is best understood as meaning "spread out." It describes something that is not concentrated in a single area but instead is dispersed or scattered across a larger space. This can apply in various contexts, such as light that scatters in different directions or ideas that are widely shared rather than being confined to a specific group.

In contrast, the other options represent concepts that are the opposite of "diffuse." To be concentrated means to be gathered together or focused in one area. Isolated refers to something that is set apart or separated from others, and restricted implies limitations or constraints that prevent something from spreading out freely. Each of these terms illustrates a state of being that is more about confinement or limitation, rather than the idea of being spread out associated with "diffuse."