The word 挑逗 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a vivid action to the concept. 挑 (tiǎo) depicts the action of poking or provoking something upward with a finger or a stick, suggesting a deliberate, teasing instigation. 逗 (dòu) conveys the idea of lingering playfully, amusing, or enticing someone to stay engaged. Together, they create a dynamic compound where 挑 provides the initial provocative "poke", and 逗 extends it into a sustained, playful interaction, perfectly capturing the nuanced meaning of "to tease", "to provoke", or "to flirt with".