The difference between a Trade Name and a Trademark

Some people are confused with the difference between a trade name and a trademark, as both refer to international legal terms related to different aspects of intellectual property protection.

A trade name is an official name under which a company or business operates. It is the name used to identify and distinguish the business entity itself. The trade name is registered with the appropriate government agency and is used for legal and administrative purposes. It helps to establish the legal identity of the company and is often associated with the company's reputation and goodwill.

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However, a trademark is a symbol, design, word, phrase, or combination that is used to identify and distinguish goods or services offered by a particular business. It serves as a unique identifier and helps consumers recognize and associate products or services with a specific source. A trademark is a company property and plays a crucial role in branding and marketing strategies, and when registered officially it provides legal protection against unauthorized use or infringement by others.