名胜 or 古迹 or just 名胜古迹

[xianhua]

I've tried various dictionary definitions, which have actually left me more confused on these words, so is this anywhere near the mark:

A 名胜 is generally used more to describe a scenic wonder, such as Guilin.

A 古迹 is generally used more for a site of historical interest, such as 故宫.

Therefore, can a 名胜古迹 be used to describe a combination of both, but not individually?

[HashiriKata]

Yes, 名胜古迹 is used as a general word (总称) for famous places of interest, regardless they are scenic or historic. I suppose you'd need a different word if you want to refer specifically and exclusively to one or the other subdivision.

(But between 名胜 and 古迹, I think 名胜 is still more generic, and can even be used in place of 名胜古迹, but 古迹 cannot.)

[yialanliu]

Also don't forget that you shouldn't be literally translating most 4 word phrases individually but rather together as a whole.

Just like in english, "holy cow" should not be translated as meaning a "divine cow" but rather is an expression. Likewise many 4 word phrases should not be broken up or else the meaning will be lost.

~yialanliu