The word 因素 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core conceptual piece to create the meaning of "factor" or "element". The first character, 因, originally depicted a person on a mat within a confined space, conveying the idea of "cause", "origin", or "to rely on". The second, 素, represents "plain silk" or "basic material", extending to mean "fundamental", "essential", or "element". Together, they form a conceptual blend where 因 provides the notion of a causal or foundational reason, and 素 adds the quality of being a basic, constituent part. Thus, the compound visually and notionally suggests the "fundamental causes" or "basic constituent elements" that compose a situation or result.