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Query Language

Query Language definition

A Query Language is a computer language. It's for retrieving specific information from databases and other structured data systems. Users or software request information in a structured, precise manner and receive output.

See also: data definition language, data manipulation language, SQL injection, SQL injection scanner, expression language injection

A query language has commands for actions like:

  • Selecting Data: Retrieving specific information from a database.
  • Updating Data: Modifying existing data within a database.
  • Inserting Data: Adding new data to a database.
  • Deleting Data: Removing data from a database.
  • Creating and Modifying Schemas: Defining or changing the structure of a database.
  • Controlling Access: Managing who has permission to perform certain actions.

Types of query languages:

  • XQuery: Used for XML data.
  • SPARQL: Used for querying RDF (Resource Description Framework) data stores.
  • CQL (Cassandra Query Language): Similar to SQL, but designed for Apache Cassandra databases.
  • MDX (MultiDimensional eXpressions): Used for OLAP (Online Analytical Processing) databases.
  • GraphQL: A query language for APIs, not databases, but it allows clients to request only the data they need.