The Chinese word 描写 (miáoxiě), meaning "to describe" or "to depict", is a compound word formed by combining two characters with closely related meanings. The first character, 描 (miáo), carries the core idea of tracing, copying, or outlining, as in carefully following the lines of an image. The second character, 写 (xiě), means to write or to express in writing. When combined, they create a synergistic meaning that extends beyond simple writing to encompass the act of vividly portraying or representing something in detail, whether through words, art, or other mediums. This formation is a classic example of a coordinated compound (并列结构), where two semantic elements of similar meaning are joined to express a more nuanced and comprehensive concept.