走路 (zǒu lù) literally combines 走 (zǒu, 'to go' or 'to walk') and 路 (lù, 'road' or 'path'), forming a compound verb meaning 'to walk'—specifically the physical act of moving on foot. Unlike the standalone verb 走, which can mean 'to leave' or 'to go' in many contexts, 走路 always emphasizes locomotion by foot and is neutral in register, suitable for everyday speech and writing.

This verb is commonly used to describe routine movement—commuting, exercising, or simply getting from one place to another without vehicles. It often appears in instructions, health advice, or casual conversation about daily habits. While it can be modified with aspect particles (e.g., 走路了, 正在走路), it is rarely used in formal or literary contexts where terms like 步行 (bùxíng) may appear instead. The word does not imply speed or distance unless specified by context or adverbs (e.g., 慢慢走路, 快速走路).