The word 征服 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core action to create a unified concept. The first character, 征, carries the meaning of a military expedition or to subdue by force, picturing an advancing action. The second, 服, means to submit, obey, or be convinced. Together, they sequentially narrate a complete process: one first exerts force or influence (征) upon something or someone, which then results in that entity yielding or submitting (服), thereby forming the holistic meaning of "to conquer".