Glossary
Reranking
Reranking is a second-stage retrieval step that reorders an initial set of candidate documents or passages using a more detailed relevance model. It aims to move the best evidence closer to the top before the language model receives context or the search interface displays results.
In plain terms
The system gathers possible sources, then applies a stronger check to reorder the shortlist.
Why it matters
A page can be discoverable in the first pass yet lose before generation because another passage better matches the full question.
How to apply it
- Align each section with one clear buyer task.
- Include qualifiers such as audience, scale and use case.
- Compare your passage directly with the sources that receive citations.
Example
A hybrid search finds 100 candidates, then a reranker moves a highly specific enterprise-security passage into the final five.
Sources
Related reading
Related terms
Back to the full glossary (75 terms).
Ranking is no longer enough
You need to be cited, mentioned, and recommended.
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