---
title: What is the difference between a patent and a trademark?
description: Looking to understand the key differences between patents and trademarks? Read our latest blog post at Legal Faqs and get all the answers you need. Discover the nuances between the two and learn how they can protect your intellectual property rights.
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---

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 March 22, 2023

# What is the difference between a patent and a trademark?

![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·   1 minute read

# Patent vs Trademark

As a lawyer, I can provide legal advice regarding the difference between a **patent** and a **trademark**. A patent protects a novel and useful invention or discovery, while a trademark protects a word, phrase, symbol, or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods or services in the marketplace.

More specifically, a patent is a legal right granted by a government to an inventor for a limited period, typically 20 years from the filing date of the patent application, to exclude others from making, using, selling, or importing the invention without permission. A patent can be granted for a variety of products or processes, including machines, chemicals, software, and designs.

On the other hand, a trademark is a distinctive sign that is used by an individual or company to distinguish its goods or services from those of others in the marketplace. A trademark can be a word, phrase, symbol, or design, or a combination of these elements, and is protected under trademark law. The purpose of trademark law is to prevent confusion among consumers about the source of goods or services and to prevent others from using a similar mark that could dilute the value of an established trademark.

In summary, the main difference between a patent and a trademark is that a patent protects an invention or discovery, while a trademark protects a brand or source identifier. While patents last for a limited period and require the disclosure of the invention to the public, trademarks can be renewed indefinitely as long as they continue to be used in commerce and do not become generic.

It is important to note that obtaining a patent or trademark can be a complex and time-consuming process that requires the advice of a licensed attorney with experience in intellectual property law. Additionally, there are many limitations and exceptions for patents and trademarks, and further legal action may be necessary to defend these rights in the event of infringement or disputes.

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