The Chinese word **牵挂** (qiānguà), meaning "to worry about" or "to have on one's mind," is a vivid compound formed through metaphorical combination. Its first character, **牵** (qiān), means "to pull" or "to lead along," implying a physical or emotional tethering. The second, **挂** (guà), means "to hang" or "to suspend," as if an object is dangling from a hook. Together, they create the powerful image of one's heart and thoughts being **pulled and suspended** by someone or something at a distance, perfectly encapsulating the feeling of constant, anxious concern for a person or matter that is out of immediate reach.