Synonyms

How Synonyms Improve Search and Help Users Find What They Need Faster

Searchcraft Academy
introduction_

What Are Synonyms in Search?

Synonyms help search engines understand different words that mean the same thing, ensuring users find what they’re looking for, even if they don’t use the exact term.

Example_

Searching for “laptop” should also return results for “notebook”, even if “notebook” isn’t in the query.

laptop
Base Word
notebook
Synonym

In this example, “laptop” is being defined as the “base word” in Searchcraft with “notebook” being its synonym.

Why Synonyms Matter in Search

Improves User Experience

Helps users find relevant content, even if they phrase their query differently.

Reduces Frustration

Prevents “no results found” errors due to minor wording differences

Enhances Conversion Rates

Critical for e-commerce and content platforms where search accuracy impacts engagement.

Chapter 1

Types of Synonyms in Searchcraft

Synonyms play a crucial role in search accuracy, but not all synonyms should be treated the same. Searchcraft supports one-way and two-way synonyms, giving you precise control over how terms are expanded. Understanding the difference helps ensure users get relevant, high-quality results without unnecessary noise.

One-Way Synonyms: Directing Search in a Specific Direction

One-way synonyms allow you to map variations of a term to a single preferred keyword without making the relationship bidirectional. This is useful when certain words are closely related but not interchangeable in all contexts.

Example_

Users searching for “sneakers” should also see results for “running shoes”, but someone searching for “running shoes” shouldn’t necessarily get sneakers if they are distinct product categories.

Tip_

Use one-way synonyms when one term is broader or more inclusive than the other, but not vice versa.

Two-Way Synonyms: Making Terms Fully Interchangeable

Two-way synonyms ensure that both terms are treated as identical in search queries. This is useful when two words mean the same thing and should return identical results regardless of which one the user searches.

Example_

A search for “car” should return “automobile”, and a search for “automobile” should return “car.”

Tip_

Use two-way synonyms for words that are true synonyms and can be swapped without changing meaning (e.g., TV ↔ television).

Choosing the Right Synonym Type for Your Search

Use Case

One-Way

Two-Way

Expanding results carefully

Making words fully interchangeable

Avoiding irrelevant matches

Handling product variations

Handling common word substitutions

Synonyms are a powerful tool for improving search accuracy and user experience—but using the right type is important. One-way synonyms provide controlled expansion, while two-way synonyms ensure full interchangeability.

Chapter 2

Implementing Synonyms in Searchcraft

Managing synonyms in Searchcraft is effortless, whether you’re using Vektron in Searchcraft Cloud or configuring them via API. Vektron is the fastest, most user-friendly way to add one-way and two-way synonyms, giving you real-time control without any code. For developers who prefer hands-on management, our API offers full flexibility.

The Fastest Way: Use Vektron in Searchcraft Cloud

The easiest way to manage synonyms in Searchcraft is through Vektron, our intuitive Searchcraft Cloud dashboard. With just a few clicks, you can:

Add one-way and two-way synonyms.

Test and refine search results in real time.

Avoid complex configurations and instantly improve search accuracy.

For Developers: Adding Synonyms via API

For those who prefer API control, synonyms can be added programmatically. Here’s a quick example:

	
curl -X POST -H "Content-Type: application/json" -H "Authorization: read-key-value" --data '["ny:new york,nyc", "lotr:lord of the rings", "iphone,android,phone:android,phone,iphone"]' https://searchcraft-cluster-url/index/:index/synonyms
	

Chapter 3

Challenges and Considerations

Synonyms are a powerful tool for improving search accuracy, but using them effectively requires careful planning. Poorly configured synonyms can reduce relevancy, introduce unnecessary noise, or even degrade search performance. In this section, we’ll explore the key challenges and considerations when implementing synonyms in Searchcraft.

Over-Synonymization: More Isn’t Always Better

Adding too many synonyms can dilute search relevance by returning excessive, loosely related results. If every term is mapped to multiple alternatives, users might get results that don’t match their intent.

Tip_

Keep synonym lists focused and precise. Use one-way synonyms to direct search behavior without unnecessary expansion.

Context Matters: Avoiding Unintended Matches

Synonyms don’t always apply universally—context affects meaning. A word that makes sense as a synonym in one industry may not be relevant in another.

Tip_

Consider domain-specific synonyms and avoid overly broad mappings that could create ambiguous search results.

Synonyms as a Strategic Tool

When used correctly, synonyms enhance user experience and search accuracy—but careless implementation can lead to irrelevant results, performance issues, and ambiguity. With Vektron in Searchcraft Cloud, managing synonyms is fast, intuitive, and easy to refine as your search needs evolve.

Chapter 4

Mastering Synonyms for Smarter Search

Fine-tuned synonyms create better search experiences—Searchcraft makes it easy.

Synonyms are a critical tool for delivering accurate, user-friendly search results, but they require thoughtful implementation to avoid unintended noise or performance issues. By using one-way and two-way synonyms strategically, monitoring search behavior, and optimizing over time, you can create a seamless search experience that feels intuitive to users.

Next Lesson

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