The Chinese word **以致** is a conjunction formed through lexicalization, combining the classical function word **以** (meaning "by means of" or "thus," used here to introduce a cause or method) with the verb **致** (meaning "to cause," "to lead to," or "to result in"). Over time, this two-character sequence fused into a single cohesive unit used primarily in written language to indicate a causal relationship, specifically connecting a prior stated cause or situation to a consequential—and often negative or unintended—result, functioning similarly to "so that" or "with the result that" in English. Its formation exemplifies how classical Chinese syntactic phrases often evolve into modern fixed vocabulary expressing logical connections.