Final answer:
The root 'cern/cert/cret/crim/crit' means to judge or to distinguish, as seen in words related to evaluation and decision-making. Therefore, option 2) and 3) both are correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The meaning of the root words 'cern/cert/cret/crim/crit' is to judge or to distinguish. These roots are found in many English words that carry the idea of judging, discriminating, or making a decision. For example, the word 'critical' involves judging the merits of something, as in critical thinking. In this sense, it means to evaluate aspects of a topic thoroughly before forming an opinion or making a decision. Words that contain these roots often pertain to making judgments or decisions based on careful thought or discernment.