Community Component 25.4
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# Synonym Search

A synonym query returns results that are conceptually similar to the terms in a `Query` action `Text` parameter or conceptually similar to the synonyms that are available for the `Text` terms.

You can configure and use synonyms in several different ways.

In a query you can use one of the following methods to specify synonyms:

- Use the `SYNONYM` operator. The `SYNONYM` operator is a query operator that allows you to specify a list of synonymous terms. OpenText recommends that you use this method in most cases. See The SYNONYM Operator.

- Use the `Synonym` parameter in queries. The `Synonym` parameter enables synonym lists for a query. To use this option, you must configure synonym lists in your Content component. See Enable Synonym Lists.

You can also replace query text directly (without using the `SYNONYM` operator). However, in this case you might find query weighting is affected by the additional query terms.

You can use the following methods to store your synonym lists:

- Configure synonym lists in the Content component. A synonym list is a simple text file that defines synonyms for a list of terms and phrases. When you configure a synonym list, Content uses it at index time to mark synonymous terms in the index. This method enables you to use the `Synonym` parameter.

- Use Query Manipulation Server. Query Manipulation Server (QMS) acts as a proxy for your queries, with access to your main query Content component, and the Promotion Agentstore. You store synonym lists as documents in the Promotion Agentstore. When you send a query to QMS, it searches the Promotion Agentstore for synonyms, modifies the query text, and forwards the modified query to the main Content component.

- Use a Synonym Server. The Synonym Server is an Content component that stores synonym lists as documents. You retrieve the synonyms in queries, and use the results to modify the original query text. This method is similar to using QMS, but you must set up your front end to manage the synonym query and text replacement.

Related Topics

- The SYNONYM Operator

- Enable Synonym Lists

- Set up a Synonym Server

Copyright 2025 Open Text
Version 25.4 | Last updated October 2025

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Product: Knowledge Discovery Community Component 25.4

Topic Title: Synonym Search