The word 典礼 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core idea to create a unified concept. The first character, 典 (diǎn), carries the meaning of a standard, a classic, or a formal ceremony. The second character, 礼 (lǐ), represents ritual, propriety, or rites. When fused, 典 elevates 礼 to imply a ceremony that is not just any ritual, but one that is formal, established, and often grand or public. Thus, 典礼 conceptually emerges as the "standard ritual", denoting a formal ceremony or celebration conducted with established dignity and procedure.