Keyword Cannibalization
When multiple pages on your site compete for the same keyword, splitting ranking signals.
Why It Matters
Cannibalization dilutes authority and can prevent any single page from ranking well.
How It Works
When Google finds multiple pages targeting the same keyword, it may alternate which page ranks or rank neither page well. Consolidating content, differentiating topics, or using canonical tags resolves the issue.
Real-World Example
Three blog posts about "email marketing tips" compete with each other; merging them into one comprehensive guide improves rankings from page 3 to position 4.
Common Mistakes
Not auditing existing content before publishing new pages
Creating similar landing pages for slight keyword variations
Related Terms
Keyword Cannibalization FAQs
How do I find keyword cannibalization?
Search "site:yoursite.com keyword" and check if multiple pages appear, or use Search Console to compare page impressions per query.
How do I fix keyword cannibalization?
Merge competing pages into one, differentiate their target intents, or use canonical tags to consolidate.
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