A method is provided which performs word recognition using the dynamic recurrent neural networks (DRNN) model and which is able to discriminate, with high precision, similar words for which misrecognition often occurs. When the vocal sounds of some words are input, the DRNN output corresponding to the input word vocal data is generated by the word detection signal output component using the DRNN word model and encoded into coded data by using a code book. When the DRNN output from the word detection signal output component has a correctness of a predetermined or greater level, a processor establishes a fixed period that includes the characteristic components of the input words in the DRNN output. The processor then examines the code data in the established fixed period. Discrimination of input words and words that are similar to the input words is accomplished on the basis of the examination results.
Similar word discrimination method and its apparatus