Natural language searching via Microsoft Search API?

Question

We are using https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/graph/search-concept-overview

A question came up recently, is it possible to do a natural language search via Microsoft Search API?

Answer 1

Dear @sysadmin,

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A Forum!

Thank you so much for your question and based on my research, natural language queries (e.g., “emails from Mr. ABC about planning”) may not be supported in the Microsoft Search API. The API is designed for keyword-based queries and structured filters rather than conversational or free-form language.

Microsoft also phased out natural language search scenarios across Microsoft Search experiences starting July 2024, so the Graph Search API may expect structured keyword queries or KQL syntax.

You can see more information in here: Updates to natural language-based search in Microsoft 365

So, it supports for keyword queries using operators like:

• filetype:docx
• from:******@contoso.com
• subject:"project plan"

Then, it does not support for conversational or natural language queries such as:

• “Show me documents Mr. ABC shared last week”
• “Find emails about planning”

Besides that, I found that Microsoft Copilot in Microsoft 365 apps and Copilot connectors may provide natural language capabilities by leveraging semantic indexing and AI-powered experiences. So, you may consider trying them if you need conversational search.

Here are some helpful articles that you can consult:

• Microsoft 365 Copilot connectors overview
• Copilot connectors and Copilot Search
• Copilot connector experiences
• Keyword Query Language (KeyQL) syntax reference

I hope this information can give you more insights of this feature and please feel free to give any feedback in comment section. Wish you a pleasant day!

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