The word "念书" is a verb-object compound formed by combining the verb "念" (niàn), meaning "to read aloud" or "to study," with its object "书" (shū), meaning "book." Historically, "念" strongly implied reading with one's voice, reflecting traditional educational practices where learning involved vocal recitation. Thus, the literal meaning is "to read a book aloud." Over time, its meaning broadened through semantic extension to encompass the general act of studying or attending school, capturing the core activity of engaging with written material for education, even when done silently.