Bing search operators do not function properly, or work in ways that are unexpected, and sometimes outright conflict with their intended use.

Question

This is pretty self-explanatory, but some of Bing's search operators, specifically using the - to remove certain terms from search (as this operator was intended - see the instructions here for explanation of the "-" operator).

I f the operator "-" doesn't RELIABLY and PREDICTABLEY work in practice, and is so easily broken that it's essentially non-functional, or does the opposite of what it is intended to do, why is it even included or suggested for Bing search?

To replicate this strange behavior, simply search for something in Bing, and use the "-" operator to omit a term from the search (not this applies to most Bing operators, I'm just singling out "-" because it's reliably broken). One of a few things will probably happen:

1. You will get the term included in the search results anyway, even though you used "-" as suggested.
2. You will get search results with the term prioritized over other results.
3. If you're extremely lucky, it might work for a minority of searches, though this is extremely rare.

Example screenshot:

I want to use Bing search, I really do, but I have to use Google instead of Bing search because Google's search operators work as expected every time, all the time, reliably.

Answer 1

Hi M. I'm Marie I'd be happy to help you today

Have you tried the method mentioned in this link?

https://www.lifewire.com/bing-advanced-search-3...

If the issue persists, I suggest contacting Bing developers via the Feedback Hub in Start Menu.

Best regards,

Marie

-

Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

Answer 2

This is a Lifewire tips and tricks article, and does not address the content of my post.

Answer 3

Hi thanks for the reply!

Sorry about that, I tested it in my end and the - operator is also not working as it should be, this could be a bug, I suggest to report this to Bing developers by going to

Bing Search > Click the Feedback link at the bottom

Check Suggestion > Submit Suggestion to Support/Developers

Regards

Answer 4

Thank you! I thought it was my LOS ( lack of skill.

Example of attempts

Ford -mustang

ford -mustang

ford -"mustang"

and so on

Definitely does not exclude, and appears to prioritize. #"thanks+again"

Answer 5

This should have been your first reply to OP, but hey, stacking reply credits is a thing amirite?

OP, I also experience this issue and find myself on Google as a result. Thanks for posting.