SEO glossary

Keyword cannibalization

Glossary termIntermediate

Short definition

When several pages on one site compete for the same search.

Beginner In plain English

If two of your own pages chase the same keyword, they can get in each other’s way, and neither ranks as well as one strong page would.

Professional How pros use it

Spot it when rankings flip between URLs for one query. Fix by merging content, differentiating intent, adjusting internal links or canonicalizing to the preferred page.

Examples

  • Two blog posts both targeting "dog harness sizes".
  • A service page and a blog post fighting for "teeth whitening cost".

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