The word 迹象 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core concept: 迹 (jì), meaning "trace" or "footprint", conveys the idea of a residual mark or evidence left behind; 象 (xiàng), meaning "appearance" or "phenomenon", conveys the idea of an outward manifestation or observable form. Together, they conceptually merge to create the meaning of "a visible trace or outward phenomenon that serves as a sign or indication" of something else, effectively capturing the notion of a perceptible clue pointing to an underlying reality or future event.