September 2008 edition

Google Search gets semantic
What is a semantic search

The Art Of SEO For Wikipedia

Tips To Gain Respect

What is a Semantic Engine?

Semantics are said to be "the next big thing" in search engine technology. We technology bloggers routinely drum up articles about it and sell it to you, the adoring masses, as a product that will change your web experience forever. Problem is, we often forget to tell you exactly what semantics are - we just get so excited. So let's explore this...

Wikipedia says:

‚Semantics (Greek semantikos, giving signs, significant, symptomatic, from sema, sign) refers to the aspects of meaning that are expressed in a language, code, or other form of representation. Semantics is contrasted with two other aspects of meaningful expression, namely, syntax, the construction of complex signs from simpler signs, and pragmatics, the practical use of signs by agents or communities of interpretation in particular circumstances and contexts. By the usual convention that calls a study or a theory by the name of its subject matter, semantics may also denote the theoretical study of meaning in systems of signs.
...which is absolutely no help.

Semantics as it relates to our topic, search engines, actually covers a few closely related fields. In this instance what we are looking at deciphering (as a basic example) is whether a computer can discern if there is a link between two words, such as cat and dog. You and I both know that cats and dogs are common household pets, and can be categorized as such. The human brain seems to comprehend this easily, but for a computer it is a much more complex task and one I won't go into here - because it would most likely bore you.

A Google search in Dutch for "zoekmachine optimalisatie" triggers suggestions to inquire about "zoekmachinemarketing" and "zoekmachine adverteren."

A Google search in English for "search engine optimization" triggers suggestions to inquire about "SEO" and "Internet marketing."

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Click here for search engine optimization in the Netherlands. Klik hier voor zoekmachine optimalisatie, zoekmachine marketing en aanmelden website in Nederland.

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