Database vs XML - Simular?

Not sure how to put this, but can you do things with an XML file much like you can with a database? Is there any way to ‘query’ a XML file? I know that may sound stupid but I thought I’d ask. Is there limitations that an XML file can not do compared to a database?

Ok my thoughts are random here, but what I’m working on used to have a database, now it has an XML file and I’m trying to convert the flash. I know it’s a whole new thing, but similarities would be good to know.

Tips / Thoughts / Ideas