The Chinese word **酝酿** (yùnniàng) is a compound formed through semantic fusion, where both constituent characters contribute related meanings to create an abstract concept. The character **酝** (yùn) originally referred to the fermentation or storage of wine, while **酿** (niàng) specifically denotes the act of brewing or fermenting. Combined, they literally evoke the process of gradual fermentation, as in making wine or vinegar. Figuratively, this concrete image is extended to metaphorically represent any gradual process of preparation, development, or maturation, such as formulating a plan, brewing an idea, or building up to an event, where elements are carefully combined and allowed to develop over time before coming to fruition.