The Chinese term **座右铭 (zuòyòumíng)**, meaning "personal motto or maxim," is formed through a vivid historical metonymy: its literal components are **座 (zuò)**, "seat"; **右 (yòu)**, "right"; and **铭 (míng)**, "inscription," together meaning "an inscription placed to the right of one's seat." This originates from an ancient practice where individuals would inscribe words of caution, virtue, or aspiration onto objects (like a belt or a vessel) and position them to their right within their study or workspace, serving as a constant, visible reminder for self-improvement and reflection, which over time evolved to denote the maxim itself rather than its physical placement.