Graph-based vs Lexical Linking

Graph-based vs Lexical Linking compares two approaches to building internal linking in SEO. Lexical linking matches pages by keywords: if page A contains the phrase 'inheritance law', it links to page B titled 'Inheritance Law'.

Graph-based linking operates on semantic relationships from a knowledge graph. We link because two entities SHARE AN ATTRIBUTE (SHARES_ATTRIBUTE), and the relationship label explains WHY. Graph-based offers three advantages: explainability (you know why you're linking), anchor text (relationship labels suggest natural anchor text), and strength (relationship strength determines link priority).

For example, lexical linking connects 'forced heirship' with 'inheritance' because both contain the word 'inheritance'; graph-based connects them because SHARES_ATTRIBUTE('limitation_period')—and the anchor text becomes 'limitation period for forced heirship'.

In practice, start with embedding-based linking (nearest neighbors), then transition to graph-based linking once you build your graph. It's a natural evolution from simple to advanced.