Accessibility
HTML Lang
Specifying Language
HTML lang attribute like lang='en' aids screen readers and search engines.
What is the HTML lang Attribute?
The HTML lang attribute is used to declare the language of the text content in an HTML document. This attribute is important for accessibility and search engine optimization. By specifying the language, web developers can ensure that screen readers and search engines understand the content's language, providing a better experience for users and improving the site's SEO.
Basic Syntax of the lang Attribute
The lang attribute is typically added to the <html> tag at the top of an HTML document. Here is a basic example:
Benefits for Screen Readers
Screen readers use the lang attribute to select the correct pronunciation rules and voice profiles for reading the text aloud. When the language is correctly specified, it helps users who rely on assistive technologies to have a more accurate and meaningful interaction with the content.
Impact on SEO
Search engines use the lang attribute to improve the accuracy of search results by understanding the language of the page content. This can be particularly beneficial for multilingual websites, where specifying the correct language for each page can help target the right audience and improve the site's visibility.
Specifying Language for Different Elements
While the lang attribute is commonly applied to the <html> tag, it can also be used on other elements to specify a different language for a section of content. For example:
Considerations for Multilingual Sites
For multilingual websites, it's crucial to ensure that each page or section of content has the appropriate lang attribute set. This helps search engines index the content correctly and assists screen readers in delivering a better user experience.
