If you want to disable Related Matches in Find on Page in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11, you can turn off the option from Edge settings. This feature shows similar or related words when you search within a webpage, but some users prefer a cleaner and more exact search experience.
Microsoft Edge includes this smart search enhancement by default in newer builds. While it can be helpful, it may feel distracting if you only want exact keyword matches. This guide explains what Related Matches is and how to disable it in Windows 11.
What Is Related Matches in Find on Page in Microsoft Edge?
When you press Ctrl + F in Microsoft Edge, the Find on Page panel opens. Besides exact matches, Edge may highlight related words or similar terms.
For example:
- Searching for “color” may also highlight “colour”
- Searching for “run” may match “running”
This behavior is powered by Microsoft Edge’s enhanced search capabilities. It is designed to improve search flexibility, but it does not suit everyone.
Why Disable Related Matches in Microsoft Edge?
Some users prefer precise search results without variations.
You may want to disable Related Matches if:
- You are reviewing technical documents
- You need exact keyword matches
- You are debugging code
- You want fewer highlighted results
Turning it off restores traditional exact-text search behavior.
How to Disable Related Matches in Find on Page in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11
Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge
Click the Start button and launch Microsoft Edge.
Make sure you are using the latest version for the setting to appear correctly.
Step 2: Open Edge Settings
- Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings.
Step 3: Go to Privacy, Search, and Services
In the left panel:
- Click Privacy, search, and services.
- Scroll down to find search-related options.
Step 4: Disable Related Matches
Locate the option related to Find on page results or Show related matches in Find on page.
Turn off the toggle.
Once disabled, the Find on Page feature will only highlight exact matches.
If you do not see the option, update Microsoft Edge from:
- Settings > About Microsoft Edge
Edge updates automatically in most cases.
Does This Setting Affect Other Search Features?
No. Disabling Related Matches only affects the Find on Page function (Ctrl + F).
It does not change:
- Bing search results
- Address bar suggestions
- Web search behavior
The modification is limited to in-page searching.
How to Re-Enable Related Matches
If you change your mind:
- Open Edge Settings.
- Go to Privacy, search, and services.
- Turn the Related Matches option back on.
Changes apply instantly without restarting the browser.
Final Thoughts
Disabling Related Matches in Find on Page in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 gives you a more traditional search experience. If you prefer exact word matching without variations, turning off this feature can make browsing cleaner and less distracting.
The process takes only a few clicks and does not affect other Edge features. You can always re-enable it if needed.
FAQs
What is Related Matches in Microsoft Edge Find on Page?
It is a feature that highlights similar or related words when using Ctrl + F inside a webpage.
How do I disable Related Matches in Edge on Windows 11?
Open Edge Settings, go to Privacy, search, and services, and turn off the Related Matches option under Find on Page settings.
Does disabling Related Matches affect web search results?
No. It only changes how the Find on Page feature works within webpages.
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