Basic Details
Word: Incumbent
Part of Speech: Adjective / Noun
Meaning: An incumbent is someone currently holding a particular position, especially in a job or an office. (As an adjective, it describes the person; as a noun, it refers to the person themselves.)
Synonyms: Holder, office-bearer, occupant
Antonyms: Challenger, candidate
Idioms and Phrases
- Incumbent upon: This phrase is used to indicate that something is necessary or obligatory for someone. Example: "It is incumbent upon teachers to provide a safe learning environment."
- Incumbent role: Refers to the function or duties of someone currently in a job. Example: "The incumbent role of the president includes leading the country and making important decisions."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The incumbent mayor has announced plans to improve the city's public transportation system.
Example 2: During the election, the incumbent faced a strong challenge from several new candidates.
Example 3: It is the incumbent who must address the issues raised by the community during the town hall meeting.
Fun Fact
The word "incumbent" comes from the Latin word "incumbere," which means "to lie upon." This reflects the idea that someone currently holding a position has a responsibility or burden connected to their role.
Famous Quote
"In this world, the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." - Franklin D. Roosevelt. This highlights the importance of decisiveness and responsibility, which is often associated with an incumbent's role.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "incumbent" mean?
a) A job that is no longer filled
b) Someone who is currently holding a position
c) A new candidate for an election
d) A type of office supply
Answer: b) Someone who is currently holding a position
2. Which of these is a synonym of "incumbent"?
a) Challenger
b) Candidate
c) Office-bearer
d) Observer
Answer: c) Office-bearer
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "incumbent"?
a) Occupant
b) Challenger
c) Holder
d) Leader
Answer: b) Challenger
4. Which sentence uses "incumbent" correctly?
a) The incumbent is running for a new office in the upcoming election.
b) She was incumbent upon making cookies for the bake sale.
c) He felt incumbent to wear a coat during the summer.
d) The cat is incumbent on the sofa.
Answer: a) The incumbent is running for a new office in the upcoming election.
5. Which idiom relates to incumbent?
a) Time is money
b) Incumbent upon
c) Burn the midnight oil
d) A penny for your thoughts
Answer: b) Incumbent upon
