攻克 is a transitive verb meaning 'to capture' in a military sense (e.g., a fortress or stronghold) or 'to solve' or 'overcome' in abstract contexts—especially difficult problems, technical challenges, or persistent obstacles. The first character 攻 (gōng) means 'to attack' or 'to assault', while 克 (kè) means 'to overcome', 'to subdue', or 'to conquer'. Together, they form a compound emphasizing decisive, successful effort against resistance. It implies not just effort but ultimate victory through perseverance and skill.

This word is commonly used in formal, written, or semi-official contexts—such as news reports on scientific breakthroughs, medical research ('cracking a disease'), engineering projects, or education ('mastering a tough concept'). It carries a positive, achievement-oriented connotation and is rarely used in casual speech. While it can apply to physical locations, its most frequent modern usage is metaphorical: overcoming barriers like illness, poverty, illiteracy, or complex algorithms.