The spelling of the phrase "were incumbent upon" can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which represents the sounds of spoken language. The word 'were' is pronounced /wər/ with a schwa sound for the first vowel. 'Incumbent' is pronounced /ɪnˈkʌmbənt/ with stress on the second syllable or 'kum'. 'Upon' is pronounced /əˈpɒn/ with a schwa sound for the first vowel and stress on the second syllable, 'pon'. Therefore, "were incumbent upon" is pronounced /wər ɪnˈkʌmbənt əˈpɒn/.
"were incumbent upon" is a phrase that conveys a moral or ethical duty for someone to fulfill or an obligation that is expected of them. The term "incumbent" refers to being necessary as an obligation or duty, and "upon" signifies that something is expected or required.
When "were incumbent upon" is used in a sentence, it emphasizes the responsibility or duty assigned to a particular individual or group. It suggests that someone is morally or legally obligated to act in a certain way or fulfill specific obligations.
For example, saying that it "was incumbent upon the government" to provide basic healthcare for its citizens implies that it was the government's moral duty or obligation to ensure that healthcare services were available and accessible to the population.
The phrase can also be used in a broader context to express a general expectation or requirement. For instance, if someone says that it "is incumbent upon all of us" to protect the environment, they are highlighting the shared responsibility and moral obligation that everyone bears to preserve and care for the natural world.
In summary, "were incumbent upon" refers to a duty or obligation that is necessary or expected of someone. It signifies a moral, ethical, or societal responsibility that should be fulfilled or met.