Additional words that refine search intent (e.g., “best,” “cheap,” “near me”).
Hey there, awesome person! Ever typed something into Google and noticed how a few extra words made your search results way better? It is like adding a secret code to get exactly what you want. Well, that little trick is super important for SEO, too! I am talking about something called a query modifier. I want to show you exactly what it is and how understanding it can completely change how people find your website. I have used this trick for 15 years to get incredible results, and I am excited to share it with you. Let’s get started!
A query modifier is a word or a short phrase that a person adds to a search to make it more specific. Think of it as a little detail that tells the search engine exactly what the person is looking for. For example, if someone searches for “running shoes,” that is a very broad search. But if they add a modifier, like “running shoes for women” or “running shoes with arch support,” the search becomes much clearer. The words “for women” and “with arch support” are the query modifiers.
Understanding what is a query modifier is a secret weapon for SEO. It helps you find out what specific needs your customers have. By including these modifiers on your website, you can match your content directly to what people are searching for. It is a fantastic way to attract people who are ready to buy or learn more about a specific topic.
The Impact of Query Modifiers on Different CMS Platforms
No matter what platform you use, you can use query modifiers to improve your SEO. It is about understanding your audience and adding these helpful words where they matter most. I have seen this work wonders across every type of website I have built.
WordPress
For WordPress users, I love to use query modifiers in blog post titles and headings. If your main topic is “yoga poses,” you can add modifiers to create new articles like “yoga poses for beginners” or “yoga poses for back pain.” This helps you target very specific, helpful content that people are searching for. I also use them in meta descriptions to improve click-through rates.
Shopify
On a Shopify store, query modifiers are perfect for product titles and descriptions. If a product is a “winter jacket,” you can add modifiers like “winter jacket for men” or “winter jacket waterproof.” This helps shoppers find exactly what they need and tells Google what your product is all about. It makes a huge difference in converting a browser into a buyer.
Wix
When I work with Wix, I make sure we use query modifiers in page titles and image alt text. If you have a page for “wedding photography,” you can use modifiers like “wedding photography in Los Angeles” or “wedding photography candid style.” It helps to create a more detailed and search-friendly site. It tells Google you are an expert in a specific area.
Webflow
Webflow’s customizability is great for using query modifiers. I can build out specific pages or CMS items that are focused entirely on a modified query. For a “project management” site, I might create a page just for “project management for small teams.” This hyper-focused approach helps me create high-ranking pages for very specific searches. It is a powerful way to win with SEO.
Custom CMS
With a custom CMS, you have full control, which is a big advantage for using query modifiers. I always ensure the platform allows for easy editing of page titles, headings, and on-page content. We can then use modifiers in a structured way to create targeted landing pages for every specific service or product. This lets us build a truly detailed and comprehensive site for search engines.
How Query Modifiers Apply to Various Industries
Using query modifiers is a smart strategy no matter what your business is. It is about getting specific and showing your audience that you understand their needs. I have seen this work for every type of company.
Ecommerce
For an ecommerce site, query modifiers help me sell more products. If I sell “coffee makers,” I can use modifiers to create pages for “coffee makers for one person” or “coffee makers with a grinder.” This targets shoppers who know exactly what features they want. It is a great way to capture high-intent traffic and increase sales.
Local Businesses
A local business can use query modifiers to connect with customers in their area. For a “plumbing service,” I can create content around “plumbing service near me” or “plumbing service for emergencies.” This helps local people find me when they need help fast. It is a must-have strategy for any local business.
SaaS
For a SaaS company, query modifiers are key to attracting the right kind of user. If my software is for “accounting,” I can write articles on “accounting software for freelancers” or “accounting software easy to use.” These modifiers help me find users who have a specific problem my software can solve. It is a very effective way to grow your user base.
Blogs
On a blog, query modifiers help me create content that readers love. If I write about “home cooking,” I can use modifiers to create articles like “home cooking on a budget” or “home cooking for a family of four.” This makes my blog more useful and relevant to different types of readers. It keeps them coming back for more.
FAQs
Q: What is a query modifier, exactly?
A: A query modifier is a word or phrase added to a search term to make it more specific. Think of it as a descriptive detail like “best,” “cheap,” “near me,” or “for beginners.”
Q: How do I find query modifiers to use?
A: I like to use Google’s “People also ask” section and “Searches related to” at the bottom of the results page. You can also use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or Semrush to find popular modifiers related to your main keywords. It is all about looking at how people naturally search for things.
Q: Should I put every query modifier on one page?
A: No, that is not a good idea. Instead, I suggest creating separate pages or content pieces for different specific modifiers. This helps each page rank for a unique, focused search. For example, have one page for “running shoes for men” and a different one for “running shoes for women.”
Q: How are query modifiers different from secondary keywords?
A: Query modifiers are a type of secondary keyword. A secondary keyword is any supporting term on your page. A query modifier is a specific word that changes the meaning of a search, like “best” or “cheap.” All query modifiers are secondary keywords, but not all secondary keywords are query modifiers.
