Information retrieval query language


An information retrieval query language is a query language used to make queries into search index. A query language is formally defined in a context-free grammar and can be used by users in a textual, visual/UI or speech form. Advanced query languages are often defined for professional users in vertical search engines, so they get more control over the formulation of queries.

Types of query languages

Note that IR query languages can be a mix of the different types. Special wild card operators and special search functions for case-sensitive or phrase searches can be defined as part of a query language.

Examples

An example of an IR query language is Contextual Query Language, a formal language for representing queries to information retrieval systems such as web indexes, bibliographic catalogs and museum collection information.