七荤八素 is formed by directly pairing the numerals 七 (seven) and 八 (eight) with the concrete food terms 荤 (meat) and 素 (vegetables), creating a literal meaning of "seven meats and eight vegetables" that evokes an image of an excessive, disorderly assortment of dishes; this tangible concept then extends metaphorically to convey a state of utter confusion or disorientation.