Answer by isomorphismes for What is the difference between $* and $@?

One of the answers says $* (which I think of as a "splat") is rarely useful.

I search google with G() { IFS='+' ; w3m "https://encrypted.google.com/search?q=$*" ; }

Since URL’s are often split with a +, but my keyboard makes   easier to reach than +, $* + $IFS feel worthwhile.