Long-tail Keywords
Specific, multi-word search phrases with lower volume but higher intent and less competition than broad keywords.
Definition
Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific search phrases—typically three or more words—that have lower search volume individually but collectively represent the majority of all searches. While "running shoes" is a head term, "best running shoes for flat feet women" is a long-tail keyword.
These keywords are called "long-tail" because they represent the long tail of the search demand curve. Though each individual long-tail keyword has low volume, they're easier to rank for and often indicate stronger purchase or action intent.
Why It Matters
Long-tail keywords are often the fastest path to organic traffic for newer sites or those competing in crowded markets. Their specificity means less competition and higher conversion rates—someone searching for a specific solution is closer to buying than someone searching broadly.
A content strategy targeting long-tail keywords can build topical authority over time, eventually enabling competition for more competitive head terms.
Examples in Practice
A mattress company ranks for hundreds of long-tail keywords like "best mattress for side sleepers with back pain," collectively driving more traffic than head terms.
A B2B software company targets long-tail problem-solution keywords, attracting highly qualified leads searching for specific capabilities.
A local service business dominates long-tail local queries that larger competitors ignore, capturing high-intent local traffic.