The word "舞台" is formed by combining two independent characters, each contributing its core meaning to create a new, unified concept. The first character, "舞" (wǔ), means "to dance" or "dance". The second, "台" (tái), refers to a "platform", "stage", or "terrace". When joined, they literally depict a "dancing platform", which logically and visually extends to mean a physical stage for any kind of performance, and by further extension, a figurative arena or sphere for activity. The formation is essentially a direct conceptual fusion: the place (台) specifically for the act of dancing or performing (舞).