征服 (zhēng fú) is a transitive verb meaning 'to conquer' or 'to subdue' — implying complete dominance over a person, group, territory, or even a challenge. The first character 征 (zhēng) means 'to levy', 'to campaign', or 'to go on a military expedition', while 服 (fú) means 'to submit', 'to obey', or 'to be subdued'. Together, they convey the idea of overcoming resistance through force, willpower, or authority, resulting in submission or control.

This word often appears in historical, political, or metaphorical contexts — such as conquering lands, taming wild animals, or mastering difficult skills. It carries a strong, sometimes dramatic or literary tone, and is rarely used for minor achievements. While it can describe physical domination, it’s also frequently used figuratively: e.g., 'conquering fear' or 'conquering a mountain'. It implies effort, struggle, and ultimate victory — not passive acquisition or gentle persuasion.