What is the Difference Between TM and Registered Trademark?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between the TM and R symbols lies in the registration status of the trademark they represent.
- TM: This symbol is used for unregistered or pending trademarks. It indicates that a company is using a specific word, logo, or phrase as a trademark, but it has not yet been officially registered with the relevant intellectual property office. Use of the TM symbol can provide some common law protection and rights.
- R: The R symbol (®) is used specifically for registered trademarks. It indicates that the word, phrase, or logo has been officially registered with the relevant intellectual property office and enjoys the legal protections associated with registration.
In summary:
- TM: Unregistered or pending trademarks
- R: Registered trademarks
It is essential to use the correct symbol for your trademark, as using the R symbol without registration can lead to legal penalties. The TM symbol can be used without registration, but it does not grant the same level of legal protection as a registered trademark.
Comparative Table: TM vs Registered Trademark
The main difference between the TM and R (®) symbols lies in the registration status of the trademark. Here is a table summarizing the key differences:
| Symbol | Meaning | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| TM [™] | Indicates ownership of an unregistered trademark | Used for logos, names, phrases, words, or designs that represent a business |
| R [®] | Represents a registered trademark | Used for registered trademarks with the appropriate registration authority |
The TM symbol is used to indicate that a specific word, expression, or symbol is intended to be used to identify the provider of a product or service. It is used for unregistered trademarks and can be used without registering the trademark. The R symbol, on the other hand, indicates that a word, phrase, or logo is a registered trademark for the product or service. It must only be used in the case of registered trademarks.
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