A measure in information retrieval used to determine how well a term separates relevant from non-relevant documents. Similar to TF-IDF but tuned for discriminative power.
Have you ever used a keyword you thought was perfect, but it just brought in the wrong kind of visitor? I know that frustration of getting traffic that does not convert because the keyword was too generic. I want to tell you about the secret factor that helps search engines know if a word is truly unique and descriptive. 💡
I am going to explain exactly What is Term Discrimination Value (TDV)? and show you how to choose words that make your content stand out. I will give you simple, actionable tips for improving your keyword selection across every major platform and industry. This focus on unique language will bring in highly qualified, ready-to-act visitors.
What is Term Discrimination Value (TDV)?
Term Discrimination Value (TDV) is an advanced concept that measures a term’s ability to uniquely identify or distinguish a specific document or topic within a large collection of data. Think of it as a score for how unique and descriptive a keyword is. A word with high TDV clearly points to one thing, while a word with low TDV is vague and common.
I focus on TDV because it shows me which words truly signal a page’s relevance to a niche query. For example, the term “car” has very low TDV because it appears on millions of pages about every type of car. However, the term “long-wheelbase electric SUV” has much higher TDV and will bring in highly targeted traffic.
The Impact of TDV Across CMS Platforms
Since TDV is all about using descriptive, unique language, my focus on every CMS is on enriching the copy and avoiding generic terms.
WordPress
On WordPress, I prioritize writing detailed, authoritative content that naturally incorporates high TDV terms unique to my niche. I ensure my main keyword appears alongside technical or descriptive phrases to maximize its discriminating power. This strategy helps me rank for highly specific, complex search queries.
Shopify
For my Shopify stores, I boost the TDV of my product titles and descriptions by using specific, unique language instead of common words. Instead of “running shoes,” I use “gel-cushioned trail running trainers with deep-lug outsole.” This precision helps me connect with customers searching for exact features.
Wix
Wix users should focus on creating concise but highly descriptive service pages that avoid generic industry terms. I make sure I am using the most specific words my potential customers would search for to describe my niche service. This focus on clarity is the simplest way to improve my TDV signals.
Webflow
Webflow’s structure is great for incorporating high TDV through its CMS collections for specifications and features. I ensure all the unique attributes of my products or services are clearly defined and structured with rich, descriptive terms. This detailed approach is a strong signal of deep, unique content.
Custom CMS
With a custom CMS, I enforce content standards that require writers to use specific, unique terminology relevant to the business’s proprietary products or services. I can integrate content checks that flag overly generic language. This fine-tuned control ensures my pages have a high discriminating value.
TDV Application in Different Industries
I use the principle of finding the most unique, specific language to attract the right audience in every sector.
Ecommerce
In e-commerce, I utilize TDV by focusing on unique identifiers like model numbers, specific materials, or proprietary names in my titles. For a specific furniture piece, I use the brand name, model name, and unique fabric type. This high specificity ensures the searcher knows exactly what they will find.
Local Businesses
For local businesses, I increase TDV by using highly specific phrases that describe my niche service within a small area. Instead of “local baker,” I focus on “artisan sourdough bakery in the downtown city market district.” This unique combination of service and location is key.
SaaS (Software as a Service)
With SaaS, I use TDV by focusing on terms that describe my software’s unique features, proprietary methodology, or technical integrations. I avoid broad terms like “cloud software” and focus on phrases like “AI-powered predictive analytics for logistics.” This attracts users looking for my exact solution.
Blogs
For blogs, I ensure my articles have a high TDV by tackling highly specific, long-tail questions that no one else has answered yet. I use unique case studies, original research names, or uncommon technical terms that distinguish my content as an expert resource. This specialization attracts a loyal, niche audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Term Discrimination Value a Google ranking factor?
While TDV is a theoretical concept, the principle behind it—that specific, descriptive terms rank better than generic ones—is a core part of how Google determines content relevance and quality. Yes, it influences ranking.
How is TDV different from keyword volume?
Keyword volume shows how many people search for a term, while TDV shows how uniquely that term identifies a topic. High volume, low TDV is common; low volume, high TDV is niche and highly specific.
What is a low TDV term example?
A low TDV term is a common, general word like “best practices,” “solution,” or “guide,” which appears on millions of unrelated pages. It fails to distinguish one page from another.
What is the most actionable tip for TDV?
I recommend swapping out all vague, generic words on your main pages with highly specific, descriptive, and technical terms relevant to your actual product or service. Be specific and unique.
