VOICE-OPERATED SERVICES

A method and apparatus accesses a database where entries are linked to at least two sets of patterns. One or more patterns of a first set of patterns are recognized within a received signal. The recognized patterns are used to identify entries and compile a list of patterns in a second set of patterns to which those entries are also linked. The list is then used to recognize a second received signal. The received signals may, for example, be voice signals or signals indicating the origin or destination of the received signals.