The spelling of the word "were variable" can be explained through its pronunciation in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Were" is pronounced as /wər/, with the "e" pronounced as a schwa sound. "Variable" is pronounced as /ˈvɛəriəbəl/, with the stressed syllable being "va" and the "i" making an "eh" sound. The spelling is influenced by the etymology of both words, as well as English spelling conventions. As with many English words, the pronunciation doesn't always match the spelling perfectly.
"Was variable" is the past tense of the verb "to be variable," which is an idiomatic expression that signifies something that is not consistent or constant, but rather subject to change or variation. It describes a situation, condition, or characteristic that does not remain the same but fluctuates, alters, or differs over time or in different circumstances.
When applied to a subject or object, "were variable" indicates that it or its properties were not fixed or uniform but demonstrated diversity or dissimilarity. For example, if we say, "The results of the experiment were variable," it means that the outcomes or findings were not consistent or uniform throughout the experiment, but rather varied or fluctuated.
In a broader sense, "were variable" suggests a state of inconsistency or unpredictability, often implying that there is no fixed pattern, standard, or fixed values associated with the subject in question. It implies that the thing being described does not adhere to a single defined characteristic but possesses a range or diversity of features or qualities.
Thus, "were variable" refers to a state of change, diversity, or fluctuation – whether in terms of characteristics, properties, outcomes, or conditions – suggesting the absence of a consistent or unchanging nature or state of being.