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Want to Build a Strong Brand Name? Think in Terms of Trademarks to Add Value to Your Brand!

Written by Alina Lee

Are you unsure how to select a brand name that is both memorable and a strong asset? From a trademark perspective, a good name can help you not only stand out but also protect your brand. Here are 3 types of marks to consider.

3 Types of Trademarks

1️⃣ A “Coined” Mark–a word that has no meaning in the English language
E.g., EXXON for gasoline

2️⃣ An “Arbitrary” Mark–a word that exists but is entirely unrelated to the business, product, or service that uses it
E.g., APPLE for computers

3️⃣ A “Suggestive” Mark–a word that suggests the nature of the product or service without describing it
E.g., NETFLIX for streaming services

 

✅ DO select the strongest types of trademarks: COINED and ARBITRARY marks

These provide an Opportunity to build a positive association between the name and the company, product, or service

❌ DON’T Select a brand name that DESCRIBES the product or service

These are more likely to be used by competitors leading to a higher risk of brand competition

Descriptive words must remain available to describe products and services

These are more likely to be rejected as trademarks

 

Have a trademark law question? Message me!

 

About The Author Alina Lee

I am a marketing law attorney who helps marketing agencies and companies with marketing departments protect their brands. In my legal career, I’ve worked at two prominent law firms and in-house at two renowned companies. Through my firm, Your Ad Attorney, I provide end-to-end legal counseling for your front-end marketing, online paywalls, and customer service communications. Plus, I provide up front flat rates on a project-by-project basis with clear turnaround times.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

This blog gives general information about marketing law trends and updates. Nothing on this site is meant as legal advice. Each situation differs on a case-by-case basis depending on the facts presented. Providing this information doesn’t create an attorney-client relationship and readers should not act upon this information without seeking legal counsel.