The word 惊讶 is formed by combining two characters, 惊 and 讶, which each contribute a layer of meaning related to a sudden, stirred emotional state. 惊 conveys the sense of being startled, alarmed, or mentally shaken, as if jolted. 讶 specifically conveys surprise, wonder, or the act of finding something strange. When fused, they create a single concept that encompasses the full, nuanced feeling of astonishment, the initial jolt of surprise combined with a lingering sense of wonder or disbelief.