Writer does not offer option to replace something with simple new line (Shift + Enter). For example are needed replace all paragraph ends (Enter) with simple new line (Shift+Enter). No search and replace are available. I think "\n" in input "Replace with" (on Find & Replace dialog) should have the meaning of simple new line (Shift + Enter) and "\p" for paragraph ending. Manual for that: http://help.libreoffice.org/Common/List_of_Regular_Expressions
You are right but you can do that with altsearch extension : http://extensions.services.openoffice.org/node/525 So not a defect because LO works as designed. Changed for enhancement. Best regards.
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