GEO Basics
What is 'grounding' in AI search?
Updated January 12, 2026GEO Expert Team
Summary
Grounding means the model generates an answer using retrieved sources (web pages, docs, databases) rather than only internal model memory. Engines with live retrieval tend to cite more and provide more current information.
Detailed Answer
Grounding means the model is generating an answer using retrieved sources (web pages, docs, databases) rather than only internal model memory. Engines with live retrieval tend to cite more.
Grounded vs. Ungrounded responses:
- Grounded: Uses real-time web retrieval, cites current sources
- Ungrounded: Relies on training data, may be outdated
Benefits of grounded responses:
- More accurate, current information
- Verifiable sources
- Reduced hallucination risk
- Better for factual queries
groundingragretrieval