Do the functions IS LIKE and CONTAINS operate in the same manner during searches?

The functions IS LIKE and CONTAINS do not operate in the same manner during searches, which is why the answer is that they differ fundamentally.

The IS LIKE function is typically used in SQL and similar query languages for pattern matching in string comparisons. It allows the use of wildcard characters to find strings that match a specified pattern. For example, using wildcards like '%' which represents any sequence of characters, one can query for records where a specific column matches a certain format or value pattern.

On the other hand, the CONTAINS function is used primarily in full-text search contexts. It is designed to search for specific terms and their variations in a text column, offering capabilities to search for words, phrases, and even proximity searches within larger bodies of text. It searches for the existence of specific terms rather than matching patterns.

These two functions therefore serve different purposes and operate on different principles, leading to their distinction in handling search queries. Their varied functionalities highlight the importance of selecting the appropriate search function based on the specific requirements of the data being queried.