1. The inequality $x \geq y$ means that $x$ can be either greater than or equal to $y$. 2. This includes both possibilities: $x > y$ (greater than) and $x = y$ (equal to). 3. So, it is a comparison where $x$ is at least as large as $y$. Therefore, the correct interpretation of $x \geq y$ is option c. $x$ is greater than or equal to $y$.