title: Similarity between strings - SQL Server 2005
body: <p>I am looking for a simple way (UDF?) to establish the similarity between strings. The <code>SOUNDEX</code> and <code>DIFFERENCE</code> function do not seem to do the job.</p>
  
  <p>Similarity should be based on number of characters in common (order matters).</p>
  
  <p>For example:</p>
  
  <blockquote>
    <p>Spiruroidea sp. AM-2008</p>
  </blockquote>
  
  <p>and</p>
  
  <blockquote>
    <p>Spiruroidea gen. sp. AM-2008</p>
  </blockquote>
  
  <p>should be recognised as similar.</p>
  
  <p>Any pointers would be very much appreciated.</p>
  
  <p>Thanks.</p>
  
  <p>Christian</p>