The word 幽灵 is formed by combining two characters whose individual meanings conceptually merge to create a new, unified idea. 幽 (yōu) conveys a sense of deep seclusion, darkness, and hidden mystery, often associated with the remote and the unseen. 灵 (líng) carries the core meaning of spirit, soul, or supernatural entity. When fused, the word synthesizes these concepts to specifically denote a "ghost" or "specter", an ethereal spirit inherently connected to the dark, hidden, and mysterious realms, thus evoking a more atmospheric and haunting presence than a generic spirit.