The word 搭讪 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a layer of meaning to create a new concept. The first character, 搭, carries the core idea of "to build" or "to put up", as in constructing a connection or initiating contact. The second character, 讪, originally implies a kind of hesitant or embarrassed speech, like an awkward or casual remark. When fused, 搭 (to initiate contact) directly modifies and sets the purpose for 讪 (casual speech), visually and conceptually painting the act of "building a conversation", that is, to strike up a chat, often with a stranger, in a tentative or informal way.