How to find Related keyword and how to use them
Ever feel like you’re doing everything right in SEO but still not ranking higher on Google? It might be because you’re missing one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, pieces of the SEO puzzle—related keywords.
Related keywords, whether they’re secondary terms or semantically linked phrases, give your content depth, clarity, and more visibility in search results. While your primary keyword is the main focus, these related terms help you match what people are really searching for—boosting your content’s relevance and reach.
In this guide, we’re going to walk you through exactly what related keywords are, how to find them, and how to use them strategically for better rankings, more traffic, and stronger engagement. Let’s dive in!
What Are Related Keywords?
Primary vs. Secondary vs. Semantic Keywords
Before we jump into strategies, let’s clear up some terms:
- Primary Keyword: The main phrase you want your content to rank for (e.g., how to lose weight).
- Secondary Keywords: Additional relevant keywords that support the primary one (e.g., weight loss tips, healthy diet for weight loss).
- Semantic Keywords: These are closely related in meaning but don’t have to include the same words (e.g., burn fat, reduce belly size, fitness routine).
Why Do Search Engines Love Related Keywords?
Search engines like Google now prioritize semantic understanding. They don’t just match exact words—they evaluate context and meaning. If your content covers all the bases using related terms, Google sees it as comprehensive and trustworthy.
Example: Using “How to Lose Weight”
- Primary: how to lose weight
- Secondary: weight loss meals, exercise for weight loss
- Semantic: burn fat fast, get fit, reduce BMI
These variations help you cover the topic in full, which both Google and your readers appreciate.
6 Proven Ways to Find Related Keywords
1. Do Keyword Research
This is the foundation. Start with a keyword research tool to uncover relevant search terms.
- Search your main keyword and explore the list of keyword variations.
- Look at search volume, keyword difficulty, and user intent.
- Identify terms that complement your main keyword without competing directly.
Example: For “how to lose weight,” related keywords might include:
- best fat-burning foods
- easy home workouts
- calorie deficit explained
Pro Tip: Look for long-tail keywords with low competition but high intent—they’re SEO gold!
2. Analyze Top-Ranking Competitors
What’s already working? Let’s reverse-engineer it.
- Google your primary keyword.
- Open the top 10 search results.
- Scan their headings, body content, and meta descriptions for recurring terms.
This shows what keywords Google already associates with your topic. If your competitors are using them and ranking, you should too—but do it better.
3. Use Content Optimization Tools
There are content optimization tools and AI writing assistants that scan your topic and suggest semantically related keywords.
- Tools like SurferSEO, Frase, or Clearscope give you keywords competitors are ranking for.
- They also suggest content score improvements.
Best Practices:
- Don’t just stuff the keywords—integrate naturally.
- Prioritize terms that make your content more useful, not just SEO-friendly.
4. Evaluate Existing Content Using Google Search Console
Already have content online? Perfect.
- Log in to Google Search Console.
- Go to Performance > Search Results.
- Check what queries are bringing people to your site.
You’ll often find surprising keywords your content is ranking for. This gives you clues to expand or adjust your article for even better performance.
Steps:
- Find a top-performing page.
- Check related queries.
- See what’s missing and update the content accordingly.
5. Use Google Autocomplete and Related Searches
This is a quick, free, and super insightful method.
- Start typing your keyword into the Google search bar.
- Pay attention to the autocomplete suggestions.
- Scroll to the bottom of the results page for “related searches.”
These are real queries people are searching for—straight from Google’s database.
Example:
Type “how to lose weight” and you might get:
- how to lose weight without exercise
- how to lose weight fast for women
These terms are ripe for inclusion in headings, FAQs, and new content ideas.
6. Leverage AI Tools like ChatGPT or Claude
AI can simplify and speed up your keyword discovery.
- Ask ChatGPT: “Give me 20 related keywords for ‘healthy diet for weight loss.’”
- You’ll get keyword ideas based on semantic similarity, context, and search trends.
How to Apply:
- Pick 5–10 relevant terms.
- Map each to a section, paragraph, or heading.
- Use variations naturally across your content.
How to Use Related Keywords in Your Content
1. Add Relevance to Existing Content
Using related keywords the right way is crucial. Here’s where to place them:
- Titles & Subheadings: Incorporate them for SEO and scannability.
- Introduction & Conclusion: Reinforce your topic naturally.
- Meta Tags: Use in meta title and description.
- Image Alt Text: Include descriptive, keyword-rich phrases.
Important: Make sure the content reads naturally—Google and your readers both dislike keyword stuffing.
2. Build Topic Clusters
This is a powerful SEO technique.
What is a Topic Cluster?
It’s a way of organizing your content:
- One pillar page targeting a broad keyword.
- Multiple cluster pages targeting related terms.
Example Structure:
- Pillar Page: Complete Guide to Losing Weight
- Cluster Pages:
- Best Foods for Fat Loss
- Beginner Workouts for Weight Loss
- Weight Loss Mistakes to Avoid
All of these link to each other, creating a tight content web that builds SEO authority.
Final Tips for Using Related Keywords Effectively
- Focus on quality, not quantity. Using 5 well-placed keywords beats stuffing 20.
- Always match user intent—what the searcher actually wants.
- Regularly revisit your keyword strategy. What works today might shift tomorrow.
- Don’t force keywords. If it sounds awkward, rephrase.
- Use tools to track performance and see what’s working.
Conclusion
Using related keywords in your SEO strategy is like giving your content extra muscle. Not only does it help Google understand your topic better, but it also improves the user experience—and that’s a win-win.
Make keyword research a regular part of your content planning. Use these methods to discover what your audience is really searching for, and apply those keywords strategically to your content.
Remember: Great SEO isn’t just about ranking—it’s about connecting the right people to the right content.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between semantic and secondary keywords?
Semantic keywords are contextually related by meaning, while secondary keywords are variations or supporting keywords directly linked to the main topic.
2. How many related keywords should I use in one blog post?
Aim for 5–10 well-placed related keywords, depending on content length. Always prioritize natural flow over quantity.
3. Can I rank just using related keywords without a primary keyword?
Not effectively. You need a strong primary keyword to anchor the content. Related keywords enhance, but don’t replace, it.
4. What tools are best for finding related keywords?
Some of the best include Google Search Console, Google Autocomplete, keyword research tools, and AI models like ChatGPT.
5. Do related keywords help with voice search optimization?
Absolutely! Semantic keywords improve natural language relevance, which aligns with how users speak when using voice assistants.