步行 means 'to walk' as a verb, referring specifically to traveling on foot without using any vehicle or assistance. The character 步 (bù) means 'step' or 'pace', and 行 (xíng) means 'to go' or 'to move'. Together, they literally convey 'moving by steps', emphasizing the physical act of walking as locomotion. It is commonly used in contexts related to transportation, health, urban life, and daily habits — for example, when discussing commuting, exercise, or environmental choices.

This word is neutral in register and widely used in both spoken and written Chinese. It often appears in compound expressions like 步行街 (bùxíngjiē, 'pedestrian street') or 步行上学 (bùxíng shàngxué, 'walk to school'). Unlike the more literary or poetic 行走 (xíngzǒu), 步行 is practical and everyday, frequently appearing in public signage, health advice, and travel planning.