The word 记忆 (jìyì, memory) is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a fundamental aspect of the concept. 记 (jì) carries the core meaning of recording or inscribing, like making a permanent mark. 忆 (yì) conveys the idea of recalling, thinking back, or reflecting. Thus, the compound conceptually merges the two essential phases of memory: the initial recording of an experience (记) and the subsequent mental act of retrieving or recollecting it (忆).