Google Algorithm: Expanding Keyword Searches to "Semantic Search" Keywords and Synonyms
In January of 2010, Matt Cutts (Google’s main man about town) revealed that “measurements show that synonyms affect 70 percent of user searches”. This means that keyword synonyms are now a significant consideration when optimizing keywords and content. Semantic Search Semantics is the science of meaning in language. A semantic search looks to understand the intent and context of the search language in order to deliver highly relevant results. Synonyms improve the relevance of your page content which then strengthens the value of your keyword. Synonyms also create more interesting and varied copy for your visitor. Additionally, synonyms give you more opportunities to vary the anchor text from your page back to your keyword hub page (assuming your site has this structure). Synonyms Are Part of the Developing “Semantic Search” Aspect of Google’s Algorithm Google uses it’s own definitions of synonyms gleaned from billions of natural searches and it ...