仪式
yíshì · HSK 6
ceremony
🙏🕯️ 仪 dignity + 式 formula = the set formula for a rite
Every ceremony follows a fixed formula of gestures and words. 仪 supplies the dignity, 式 supplies the structure.
式 — 工 (work) + 弋 (phonetic)
式 is a phono-semantic compound: 工 ('work, craft') gives the meaning of a tool, rule, or method, while 弋 supplies the sound. It originally referred to a standard pattern or model used in craftsmanship, then broadened to mean 'style, form, ceremony, or formula.'