The character "切" is formed with the radical "刀" (knife) indicating its association with cutting, and the component "七" primarily providing phonetic suggestion. The character "磋" is formed with the radical "石" (stone) indicating its association with grinding, and the component "差" primarily providing phonetic suggestion. Combined into the word "切磋", the literal meaning arises from the actions of cutting and polishing, as in working on materials like jade or bone.