CATEGORY · SEO · A01
Canonical tag
A canonical identifies the preferred URL among duplicate or similar pages. It is a consolidation signal, not an instruction that forces Google to index that URL.
Full definition
A canonical identifies the preferred URL among duplicate or similar pages. It is a consolidation signal, not an instruction that forces Google to index that URL.
Concrete Shopify example
Illustrative example: collection-scoped and /products/ URLs for the same item can reference one product URL. Inspect the rendered tag, not just an SEO app setting.
Common misconceptions
A canonical does not delete the alternative URL or replace a redirect for a permanent move.
My take
Align internal links and the sitemap with the preferred destination, then compare declared and selected canonicals in Search Console.
Related terms
Go further
Sources and editorial context
Teo Comyn · Updated
Technical references consulted for this revision. Illustrative examples are not measured client results. Check the current documentation and your store before applying a change.
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