The Chinese word **宾客 (bīnkè)**, meaning "guests" or "visitors," is formed through a classic method of **synonym compounding**, where two characters with similar meanings are combined to create a single, more nuanced or formal term. The character **宾 (bīn)** originally denoted a distinguished or honored guest, often one with a specific status or purpose, while **客 (kè)** had a broader sense of a visitor, traveler, or external party. By pairing them, the compound **宾客** encompasses the full spectrum of guests, from the formally invited to general visitors, thereby enriching the semantic scope and adding a tone of respect and comprehensiveness to the concept.