Filtering Results

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Filter Basics

The filter_group API parameter refines results by selecting only the products that match the given expressions and running the query on those products. The filter_group expects a filter expression.

{
  "filter_group": {
    "conditional": "AND",
    "expressions": [
      {
        "property": "product_type",
        "operator": "eq",
        "value": "Sweater"
      },
      {
        "property": "options.color",
        "operator": "eq",
        "value": "RED"
      }
    ]
  }
}

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Expressions and Operators

Expressions are the core of the filter language.

{
  "property": "product_type",
  "operator": "eq",
  "values": ["Sweaters"]
}

• property is the attribute of the field you want to filter on.
• operator is the logical operator such as in, gt, gte, lt, lte, exists, not_in, not_eq, not_exists.
• value is the value the operator compares against in the attribute.

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Examples of Basic Conditions

A condition to find products of type Sweaters:

{
  "property": "product_type",
  "operator": "eq",
  "values": ["Sweaters"]
}

A condition to find products created after 1 January 2020 (UNIX Epoch time):

{
  "property": "created_at",
  "operator": "gt",
  "values": [1577836800]
}

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Complex Filter Expressions

You can build advanced filter groups by combining expressions using AND and OR.

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Example of Complex Expression

To include both Accessories and products from SUPREME published after 1 January 2020:

{
  "conditional": "OR",
  "expressions": [
    {
      "conditional": "AND",
      "expressions": [
        {
          "property": "product_type",
          "operator": "eq",
          "values": ["Accessories"]
        },
        {
          "property": "vendor",
          "operator": "eq",
          "values": ["Supreme"]
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "conditional": "AND",
      "expressions": [
        {
          "property": "published_at",
          "operator": "gt",
          "values": ["1577836800"]
        }
      ]
    }
  ]
}

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Best Practices for Filter Language

When crafting filter expressions:

• Test complex expressions in a controlled environment before deployment.
• Ensure consistent case usage for string attributes to prevent mismatches.

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Advanced Concepts

• Nested Expressions: Combine multiple levels of conditions.

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Troubleshooting Filter Expressions

If your filter expression isn’t returning the expected results:

• Check for correct operator usage.
• Confirm that attribute names and values match exactly with the data.

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Conclusion

The filter language is an essential tool for any developer looking to implement a nuanced and responsive search feature. With careful construction and testing of filter expressions, you can provide users with a powerful means to navigate complex datasets and inventories.