Quick Definition
When an AI model mentions, recommends, or references your brand in its generated response.
In-Depth Definition
An AI citation occurs when a large language model includes your brand name, product, or content in its generated response to a user query. Citations can range from direct brand mentions and product recommendations to sourced references with links (as in Perplexity) or implicit endorsements within comparative discussions.
AI citations are the core metric of GEO and AEO success. They represent the AI equivalent of a first-page ranking in traditional search — the moment when an AI platform validates your brand as a trusted authority in response to a relevant query.
Citation quality varies significantly. A direct recommendation as the top choice carries more value than a passing mention in a list. Citation monitoring tools track frequency, position, sentiment, and context across multiple AI platforms to provide a comprehensive picture of AI visibility.
Related Terms
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