hreflang attribute · International SEO
Hreflang is an attribute that signals equivalent language or regional versions of a page. Poorly implemented, it causes cannibalization between markets: Google may show the wrong version to the user or ignore the annotations.
Standalone definition · 34 words
How does hreflang work?
Each version references all equivalent versions, including itself, through link tags, HTTP headers or the sitemap. Values combine a language (ISO 639-1) and optionally a region (ISO 3166-1), plus x-default for the fallback version. Annotations must be reciprocal.
What are the most common mistakes?
Non-reciprocal annotations, invalid codes (for example en-uk instead of en-gb), URLs that redirect, hreflang pointing to noindexed or canonicalized pages, and mixing several contradictory methods. Each error can cause some or all annotations to be ignored.
Hreflang and GEO
AI engines answer in the language of the prompt and can cite any version. Clearly distinguished versions, with truly localized content and consistent hreflang, limit citations of the wrong version. Raw machine translation remains a quality risk.
Frequently asked questions
Does hreflang improve rankings?
No, it serves to display the right version by language and region.
Is x-default required?
No, it is recommended for the fallback or selector version.
Do I need hreflang for two French pages from different countries?
Yes, if they differ (fr-fr, fr-be), so they do not compete.
Related terms
Further reading
- Search Central Live Deep Dive Barcelona 2026: what Google said over the 3 days
- Generative AI Report in Google Search Console: How to Analyze It
- ← Back to the GEO glossary (114 terms)