The word 分离 is formed through a classical Chinese method of word formation where two independent characters, each carrying a similar core meaning, are combined to create a single, reinforced concept. The character 分 depicts dividing something with a knife, carrying the idea of "to divide" or "to part". It is paired with 离, which historically depicted a bird flying away, meaning "to leave" or "to depart". By placing these two characters side-by-side, their individual notions of splitting and departing merge into a single, more potent and nuanced idea of "to separate" or "separation", capturing both the act and the resulting state of being apart.