The word "自负" is formed through a direct and metaphorical combination of its two component characters. The first character, "自", means "self". The second character, "负", has a core meaning of "to carry" or "to bear", often extending to burdens or responsibilities. When fused, the concept becomes "self-carrying", picturing a person who lifts up or bears their own self-importance. This creates the figurative meaning of an inflated sense of one's own abilities or value, resulting in the comprehensive idea of conceit or arrogance.