Don’t get double vision: How to choose domain names that avoid costly confusion
Don’t get double vision: How to choose domain names that avoid costly confusion
Choosing the right domain name is one of the most important branding decisions your business will make. Your domain is your digital front door — the first thing people type, read, and remember about your brand.
While creativity is key, some naming choices can backfire and cost you valuable traffic, revenue, and brand credibility. Two of the most common traps are using double letters and using words with unintended double meanings.
Steer clear of double letters
People are busy and often type quickly. Domain names with consecutive double letters — like ss or tt — can confuse the eye and brain, leading to frequent typing errors.
For example, domains like Amysscents.com or smartteam.com leave users unsure if there’s one “s” or two. This hesitation often leads to misspellings, which means lost visitors and lost revenue.
Best tip:
Avoid consecutive double letters in your domain name. Choose a domain that aligns with your brand but avoids tricky or non-traditional spellings like jewlz for jewels.
Watch out for double meanings
Language is complex, and words don’t always translate the way you expect. A term that seems harmless in one region may carry an unintended or inappropriate meaning elsewhere.
For example, a domain like itscrap.com could mean “it’s scrap” — but it could also be read as “it’s crap,” which is clearly not ideal for any brand.
Best tip:
Crowdsource your domain ideas. Ask 10 people on your team to read the name and share their first impressions. If multiple people misinterpret it or find it negative, it’s not the right choice.
The takeaway
Your domain name is a vital part of your brand identity — and first impressions matter. Keep it clear, simple, and easy to type. The fewer chances for confusion, the better.
Don’t have time for all of that? The Ilkari Domains team can help brainstorm, validate, and secure the right domain name for your brand.
