Trademark Dictionary
Phonetic similarity in trademark law refers to the degree of resemblance between two or more trademarks in their pronunciation or sound. This includes elements such as the spelling, pronunciation, and cadence of the trademarks that are likely to be noticed by consumers.
When assessing the phonetic similarity between trademarks, trademark offices and courts consider various factors such as the overall impression created by the trademarks when pronounced, the degree of similarity or dissimilarity in pronunciation, and the level of attention of the relevant consumers. They also consider the similarity of the goods or services for which the trademarks are used, as well as the likelihood of confusion that may arise as a result of the phonetic similarity between the trademarks.
Many entrepreneurs still consider trademark registration to be the least important step in the process of establishing their brand. This can become a big issue. Not registering a trademark from the start leaves a company vulnerable to potential copycats and other forms of brand infringement that can significantly damage its reputation and hamper growth.
Filing for trademark registration is something anybody can do with a single online application. Many business owners, however, decide to wait with trademark registration because the process can appear quite complicated at first sight. Applying without a legal representative can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Mistakes and errors are easy to make and can lead to weak trademark protection or the rejection of your trademark registration altogether.
Moët & Chandon, Dom Pérignon, Laurent-Perrier and other world-class producers of champagne can no longer use this term to label their products in Russia. The new law passed on 2 July 2021 has caused a considerable upheaval among champagne producers but also consumers. Our legal team has taken a closer look into this dynamics of using geographical indicators.
