attack, accuse

攻 is composed of 工 (tool, work) and 攴 (strike). 工 is a pictograph of a tool with a blade at the top, resembling a shovel, while 攴 depicts a hand holding a stick. A shovel can be used to dig trenches for hiding soldiers in a surprise attack. Thus, 攻 refers to a strategic military action, not merely a physical strike.