The word 表演 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a core concept to create a unified meaning. The first character, 表 (biǎo), carries the fundamental idea of "to show" or "to express outwardly". The second character, 演 (yǎn), contributes the notion of "to develop", "to elaborate", or "to enact". When combined, they conceptually merge the act of outward display with the act of developed enactment, resulting in the composite idea of a "performance", where something is elaborated and shown, as in a theatrical play, a musical act, or a demonstration of skill.