The Chinese word 出格 (chūgé) is a compound formed by combining the verb 出 (chū), meaning "to go out" or "to exceed," with the noun 格 (gé), which denotes a "grid," "pattern," "standard," or "proper limit." Literally, it evokes the image of stepping outside the lines of a grid or frame. Figuratively, this structure creates the meaning "to overstep the bounds," "to break the rules," or "to behave inappropriately," as one is metaphorically leaving the confines of accepted social norms or standards.