How do I highlight all search matches in the file?

Explanation

The hlsearch option highlights all matches of the current search pattern throughout the file, making it easy to see where matches occur.

How it works

• :set hlsearch enables persistent highlighting of search matches
• All matches are highlighted, not just the one under the cursor
• Highlighting persists until you search for something new or run :nohlsearch

Example

With hlsearch enabled, searching /error highlights every occurrence of "error" in the file with a yellow (or theme-appropriate) background.

Tips

• :nohlsearch (:noh) temporarily clears the highlighting
• :set nohlsearch permanently disables it
• Put set hlsearch in your vimrc for permanent activation
• Combine with incsearch for the best search experience