Glossary

Query Rewriting

Query rewriting is the process of translating a user’s natural-language prompt into one or more search queries that a retrieval system can execute. The rewritten wording may emphasize entities, constraints or synonyms that never appeared verbatim in the original request.

In plain terms

The engine changes the question into search-friendly versions before looking for sources.

Why it matters

Pages must be clear on concepts and entities, not merely repeat one exact phrase, because retrieval may use different wording.

How to apply it

  • Cover common synonyms in natural prose.
  • State category, audience and use case explicitly.
  • Test search results for likely rewrites of priority prompts.

Example

“Which security platform fits a small hospital?” may be rewritten into queries about healthcare cybersecurity tools, HIPAA support and mid-market pricing.

Sources

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