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What is the difference between ® and ™ symbols?

Founder & Trademark Attorney

The ® symbol stands for a registered trademark, and it can only be used after registration is officially complete and a certificate is issued.

The ™ symbol signals an intent to register and is less constrained. Marks using the ™ symbol are often undergoing the registration process at that point in time. As the process can take several months, the symbol allows brand owners to put potential copycats on notice that legal protection is being sought.

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