In 1992 he registered the phrase as a trademark, and since then has earned about $400 million from it. It feels odd to trademark a phrase. Before Buffer started using the phrase before matches, no-one had used it before, so I understand how he claims it. You wouldn’t be surprised to hear that McDonald’s weren’t happy about a burger chain using I’m Lovin’ it. On appeal, companies have found denial didn’t consider needs. Talk to a trademark attorney.
Trademarking Strategies
Nike’s Just Do It became iconic. Made-up words and arbitrary words are strongest to trademark. Invented words can only relate to your brand. Arbitrary words exist but aren’t product related like Bumble Bee Seafood. Suggestive words speak to a product trait without referring to it directly as Patagonia has no direct clothing connection, but suggests outdoor adventures.
Trademark Application Process
Filing for a word trademark requires it to be in commerce use. Conduct a search before using it. File application and begin commerce use. Monitor trademark to prevent infringement. Once verified unique, apply to register it. Use helps protect from local competition.
Trademarking Common Words and Phrases
Common words and phrases get protection if not generic for the products or services. Made-up words for your business name can be a trademark if meeting general requirements.
Trademarking Unique Words
You can create unique words. These invented words adhere to proper grammar and spelling rules. You can also create compound words and phrases as well as hybrid words made up of parts of other words.
Can you trademark a normal word?
Can a single word be trademarked?
Can you trademark a phrase or common word?
What words Cannot be trademarked?
How can you tell if you have a trademark?
How do you legally trademark a word?
Can I copyright a made-up word?
Is it possible to trademark a generic word like “chocolate”?