The present invention is directed to systems and methods for encoding and retrieving information from a variety of sources using novel search techniques. The systems and methods of the invention are capable of extracting all types of structural and relational information from a query or a source data allowing for the recognition of subtle differences in meaning. The capability of discerning subtle differences in meaning that are beyond the search systems and methods presently available, the invention described herein is capable of repeatedly providing accurate and meaningful responses to a diverse set of queries.