Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method in which it is possible to set information retrieval conditions wherein the user's intention in performing retrieval is reflected satisfactorily, and in which fuzzy retrieval can be performed in accordance with the retrieval conditions thus set. According to the present invention, the user, in the setting of retrieval conditions, is capable of freely connecting preconditions, which represent the desired conditions with regard to attribute signals in a data base, using one or a plurality of MEAN, MIN and MAX operations. Accordingly, it is possible to set retrieval conditions that fully reflect the intentions of the user. Moreover, fuzzy retrieval processing in accordance with retrieval conditions set by the user is executed and retrieved results reflecting the intentions of the user are obtained.