Trademark 101: Use in Commerce - What is that?

#trademark

When it comes to trademarks, "use in commerce" is a key phrase that often leaves people scratching their heads, wondering if it's something they need a law degree to understand. Fear not! Let's break it down, and no, you won't need to pass the bar exam to get it.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) defines "use in commerce" as actually using your trademark in the economic marketplace. In other words, you're not just claiming a cool logo or catchy phrase because it popped up in your dreams; you’re actually slapping it on products or services that are being sold or transported in the U.S. It’s like saying, "I’m not just talking the talk; I’m walking the walk!"

Now, crossing international waters, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) dances to a similar beat. They agree that a trademark should be more than just a pretty drawing on paper. It should appear on your products, your packaging, or be plastered all over your advertisements. If your trademark is sitting idle, like that gym membership you got in January, then it's not really considered "in use."

Why does this matter? Well, if you want to protect your trademark officially, both the USPTO and WIPO want proof that you’re actually using it in the big, wide world of commerce. Think of it as the universe asking, "Are you serious about this?" And you confidently replied, "You bet I am!".

So, there you have it. "Use in commerce" means making your trademark do some real work out there in the market, not just keeping it as a fancy decoration. Get it out there, make it seen, and let it earn its keep!