The Chinese word 戒备 (jièbèi) is a compound formed by combining two synonymous morphemes, 戒 and 备, which both relate to the concept of preparedness and caution. 戒 primarily carries the meaning of "to guard against" or "to warn", while 备 means "to prepare" or "to have in readiness". When combined, they create a nuanced term meaning "to take precautions", "to be on guard", or "to be vigilant", conveying a state of heightened alertness and defensive preparation against potential danger or threat.