Learning Neo4j

Key operative words in Cypher

Like every database query language, there are a few operative words that have an important meaning in the composition of every query. It's useful for you to know these since you will be using them to compose your specific queries on your specific datasets.

Keyword	Function	Example
MATCH	This describes a pattern that the database should match. This is probably the most important piece of the query as it is a structural component that always starts your queries.	MATCH (me:Person)-[:KNOWS]->(friend)
WHERE	This filters results that are found in the match for specific criteria.	WHERE me.name = "My Name" AND me.age > 18
RETURN	This returns results. You can either return paths, nodes, relationships, or their properties—or ...