The word 改变 is formed by combining two independent characters, each contributing a related nuance of change. The first character, 改 (gǎi), carries the core meaning of "to alter" or "to revise", often implying a deliberate correction or amendment. The second, 变 (biàn), means "to change" or "to transform", suggesting a shift in state, form, or condition. Together, they create a composite concept where 改 provides the sense of active alteration and 变 adds the dimension of resultant transformation, forming a complete idea of "to change" that encompasses both the act and the outcome.