Multi-language sequential data retrieval system

PURPOSE: To extract an entry from a directory in the sorted order without sorting operation at retrieval by putting sort keys in order based on a prescribed criterion and making each sort key in cross reference to an entry command in related data memory. CONSTITUTION: A multi-language database 60 has a data storage 62 storing multi-language data and a common index 63 of sort keys 163 to facilitate the access to the data storage 62. Then the sort keys 163 are sequenced based on a prescribed reference and each sort key 163 relates a command 67 of an entry in the related data storage 62. Thus, it is possible to scan and retrieve all data contents by the sort order of the user regardless of its size and convenience is attained. COPYRIGHT: (C)1989,JPO