If you own a business and are looking for ways to protect your brand and identity, one of the most important steps you can take is to secure a distinctive trademark. A distinctive trademark, or “strong trademark” is a mark that is distinctive or unique to a company or product and has been used to distinguish it from other goods and services in the marketplace.
A trademark is considered to be distinctive when it is able to distinguish a business’s products or services from those of its competitors, and be associated in the minds of consumers with the particular business or product. Traditionally, the more distinctive a trademark is, the greater the protection it will receive under the law.
Types of Distinctive Trademarks
When it comes to trademarks, there are several different types that may be deemed distinctive. Some of the most common and recognizable of these are arbitrary, fanciful, suggestive, and descriptive trademarks.
Arbitrary Trademarks
An arbitrary trademark is one that has no logical connection to the goods or services associated with it. Examples of this type of trademark are Apple for technology products, or book for online retail stores.
Fanciful Trademarks
A fanciful trademark is one that is completely made up and not descriptive or suggestive in any way of the product or services it is associated with. Examples of this type of trademark include Exxon for an oil and gas company and Kodak for a photography company.
Suggestive Trademarks
A suggestive trademark hints at the goods or services associated with it but does not explicitly describe them. Examples include Greyhound for a bus line and Carousel for an amusement park ride.
Descriptive Trademarks
A descriptive trademark explicitly describes the goods or services associated with it. Examples include Jet Blue for an airline and Best Western for a hotel chain.
Conclusion
Obtaining a distinctive trademark is essential for protecting your brand and identity and ensuring your products and services stand out from the competition. It is important to understand the different types of trademarks and choose one that fits your business best. With the right trademark, your business will be well on its way to American success.