辞行 (cí xíng) is a formal or respectful verb meaning 'to take leave before departing' — typically used when saying goodbye to someone before leaving for a trip, moving away, or embarking on an important journey. The character 辞 (cí) means 'to bid farewell' or 'to resign', carrying connotations of respect and intentionality; 行 (xíng) means 'to go' or 'to travel'. Together, they emphasize the act of deliberately and politely taking leave as part of the departure process.

This word is commonly used in face-to-face farewells, especially with elders, teachers, or superiors, and appears frequently in literature, formal letters, and spoken contexts where courtesy matters. It is more solemn and intentional than casual phrases like 再见 (zàijiàn). While often associated with physical departures, it can also be used metaphorically — for example, when leaving a job or ending a long chapter of life — though literal travel remains its primary context.