Exact phrases can usually be searched by putting quotations marks around the words:
"world history"
"united states"
Proximity searching lets you specify the distance between your search terms. This can be really helpful for databases that are full text, like JSTOR. Often in the Advanced Search option, the operator menu will let you choose the distance between words:
The HELP in any database should also give information about proximity, if it is available.
From WorldCat, here's the the help on Adjacent terms (proximity):
ProQuest has a link on the Advanced Search page that offers Search tips, including proximity options:
