Query
As a noun: A request for information from a database. As a verb: To ask a question about something, especially to an official or an organization; to retrieve information from a database using a specific command.
In data contexts, a 'query' is a formal request, often written in a specific language (like SQL), to extract or manipulate data from a database.
Word relationships
- Question: Broader, can be informal; 'query' implies a more formal or structured request, especially in data.
- Inquiry: A formal request for information, often implying a deeper investigation.
- Request: A general term for asking for something; 'query' specifies asking for information from a system.
- Answer: A response to a question or query.
- Statement: A declaration or assertion, not a question.
Commonly confused with
- Question: A 'question' is any interrogative statement. A 'query' is typically a more formal or structured request for information, especially from a system or authority.
Word family
- inquirer (noun): a person who asks questions or seeks information.
- inquiry (noun): an act of asking for information or an official investigation.
Collocations
- database query
- SQL query
- run a query
- execute a query
- search query
Example sentences
- "The student wrote a complex SQL query to retrieve all customer orders placed last month." In a database management class.
- "I need to query the system logs to find out why the server crashed." From a technical support interaction.
- "The journalist submitted a formal query to the government department regarding the new policy." In a news report.
Memory hook
To 'QUERY' a database is to 'QUEst' for information, like a knight on a quest. QUEst for info
When not to use
While 'query' can mean a general question, in data contexts, it specifically implies a structured request to a data system. Don't use it for casual questions.
Fun facts
- SQL (Structured Query Language) is the most common language used to query relational databases.
- The term 'query letter' is still used in publishing for a letter sent to an agent or editor to inquire about their interest in a manuscript.
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