July 23, 2025

Why Phrase Match is Losing Ground to Broad Match in Google Ads

Google Ads

The Google ads platform is ever-evolving. As a result, the search algorithms and bidding techniques change from time to time. One such noteworthy shift is the rising dominance of broad match keywords over phrase match keywords. 

Key Highlights

  • Understanding how phrase match is losing ground to broad match in Google Ads. 
  • Broad match works better with smart bidding techniques since it provides Google’s algorithm with more data and flexibility when optimizing for conversions and ROI.
  • Google encourages broad match for easier account structure by reducing the need for tight keyword control.
  • Pixabell Web Design helps you improve the success of your ads with the right keywords. 

match keywords over phrase match keywords. 

Broad match benefits from Google’s machine learning and advanced techniques, which makes it more effective at reaching intent users even when search queries don’t have the exact keyword. As a result, advertisers started considering this default keyword targeting method over others. 

Having a clear understanding of this shift is important to create campaigns that drive better RoAS. If you are not sure how to adapt your ad strategy by partnering with a leading digital marketing agency in Dubai can help you optimize your ad performance and reach the right audience.

Keep reading this blog to know why phrase matching is losing its power before broad match in Google ads. 

Understanding Major Keyword Types: Phrase Match and Broad Match

Before delving into the causes behind the shift, it is crucial to discuss the basics of phrase and broad match types.

Phrase Match – Ads appear for searches containing the meaning of your keyword, with words nearby before or after a phrase. It provides greater control than broad matches but less reach. If your phrase match keyword is “running shoes”, your ad could show searches like “best running shoes for men.”

Broad Match- Broad match is the default match type in Google Ads. It allows your ads to show up for searches related to your keyword by including synonyms or other relevant variations. If your keyword is Women’s handbag, your ad might show searches like women’s handbag and ladies handbag. 

Reasons Why Phrase Match is Losing Ground to Broad Match in Google Ads

There are various reasons why phrase match is losing ground to broad match in Google Ads. Here are the top reasons

  • Phrase Match Declines and Broad Match Rises

Phrase match has historically struck a balance between reach and precision by displaying advertisements when a search contains the exact phrase or similar variations in the same order. On the other hand, AI and natural language processing help broad matches to drive conversions even when their search doesn’t use exact keywords.

Due to these enhancements, Google can now understand inquiries more broadly than just literal keyword matches, matching marketers with customers whose searches, even in the absence of specific terms, meet their objectives. 

  • Reach and Conversations

Broad match keywords are accurate and have more reach than other match types. It can lead to good conversation when  bid smartly and have enough data.  This competitive edge comes with some limitations. Broad matches must overcome several learning curves when launching new broad match campaigns. Additionally, economic factors can lead to incorrect steering of machine learning. 

Broad match is an excellent technique to maximize your clients’ or company’s reach and conversion rates.  As a bonus, the cost per acquisition will decrease as the smart bidding learns what works and what doesn’t. Providing machine learning with the necessary data can accelerate the process. Seeking the support of a professional digital marketing agency will help you to reap the benefits of Google ads to the fullest. 

  • Google’s Push for Automation and Machine Learning 

Google’s strategic shift toward automation is one of the primary drivers of broad match’s growing popularity. Smart bidding and performance max campaigns rely significantly on machine learning.  Broad match integrates smoothly with these systems, providing Google with additional data and flexibility to maximize performance. 

In contrast, phrase matching limits the algorithm’s flexibility to explore variations and user intents. Because automation thrives on flexibility and vast datasets, broad match becomes a more effective fit. If you hire the best digital marketing services in Dubai, ad experts will help you reach your target audience with your targeted ads. 

  • Loss of Control in Phrase Matching 

Today’s phrase match does not provide the same level of control that it once did. Google has expanded the scope of what constitutes a phrase match trigger. Even with phrase match, your ad may appear for rephrased or approximately related queries. 

So, if you are not receiving the granular control you wanted, and you are not benefiting from broad match’s AI-driven optimisation, the value proposition of phrase match weakens. A Google Ads specialist in Dubai will help you throughout the process of your ad from beginning to end. 

Bottom Line 

Phrase match is gradually losing ground to broad match as automation and more advanced algorithms become more prevalent in Google Ads. Broad match now enables advertisers to reach a larger audience with more specific goal targeting and enhanced campaign performance. 

Partnering with Pixabell Web Design ensures that your ads are optimised using the latest tactics. We guide you through the evolving Google Ads market, from effective term targeting to creative ad design, to ensure optimal visibility and growth. We are the best Google Ads specialists in Dubai. Let specialists help you improve your ad success immediately!

FAQS

1. What are the Three Signals Broad Match Uses?

The broad match uses simple language, smart bidding, and geographic signals to optimize your ad reach and connect with the right audience. 

2. Are Phrase Matching Keywords Still Useful?

Yes, they provide control and precision, particularly in campaigns with precise targeting requirements. However, for performance-driven aims, broad match frequently offers superior scalability.

3. Should I Switch all My Keywords From Phrase to Broad Match?

Not immediately. It is advisable to try broad matches in high-converting ad groups and track performance. 

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