To find one word within a certain distance of another word, use w (within) or p (preceding) followed by a number.
Operator | Meaning | Example |
w# | Find all occurrences of two words where they are within # words of each other (local within 3 words of networks, before or after). | local w3 networks |
p# | Find all occurrences of two words where the first precedes the second by no more than # words (australian precedes cyclones by 2 words or less). | australian p2 cyclones |
Tips
You can use a wildcard symbol at the end of either word: local w3 network*
You cannot string together multiple proximity searches, such as sailing w3 race w2 cup, nor can you use a phrase in a proximity search: australia w5 global warming.
When counting words, the first word is not included but the second word is. Example: in the phrase once in a lifetime, once is within three words of lifetime.