The character 游泳 is formed through a process of semantic compounding, where two independent characters, each carrying related meanings, are combined to create a single, more specific concept. Both components, 游 and 泳, individually contain the "water" radical (氵) on their left side, pictorially anchoring them to the liquid element. They are then placed side-by-side, with 游 often implying the action of traveling or moving through water and 泳 emphasizing the specific technique or act of swimming itself. This dual reinforcement creates a visually and conceptually cohesive unit that vividly depicts the sustained action of moving in water.