The closest example in a dataset is only close under a particular representation and distance rule. That may differ from what a buyer means by a similar plush product.
Scikit-learn's neighbour methods use distances between represented samples to identify nearby examples. Scikit-learn — neighbors.
Examine a concrete query
For an archive search, compare whether the results share silhouette, colour or background. Decide which of those similarities is useful for the task. A technically correct neighbour search can still answer the wrong business question.
Preserve exact identity
Similarity should not overwrite product codes or imply that two records are interchangeable. Keep the retrieved example's original reference and show why it was suggested. Evaluate retrieval using actual tasks rather than a few attractive demonstrations.
Source reviewed 25 October 2026. Interpretation and original diagrams: PLUSHIP / Qunhe. Examples are illustrative.
Related reading
Object Detection Can Locate a Detail Without Measuring Its Quality
Instance Masks Separate Individual Objects in a Product Photograph
Semantic and Instance Segmentation Organise a Scene Differently