---
title: What is the difference between a trademark and a copyright?
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---

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 March 25, 2023

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

![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

As a lawyer, I can explain that a **trademark** is a symbol, word, or phrase used to identify and distinguish the goods or services of one business from those of another. A trademark can include logos, brand names, and slogans. The purpose of a trademark is to prevent confusion among consumers, allowing them to easily identify the source of a product or service.

A **copyright**, on the other hand, is a legal protection granted to authors of original creative works, such as books, music, and movies. Copyright law grants exclusive rights to the copyright holder to reproduce, distribute, perform, and display their work.

In summary, a trademark is a protection for identifying and distinguishing goods or services, while a copyright is a protection for creative works. Both are aimed at preventing others from using or copying protected materials without permission.

It is important to note that different laws govern trademarks and copyrights, and the requirements for obtaining protection may differ. For example, trademarks are typically registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, while copyrights are not required to be registered but can be registered with the United States Copyright Office.

It is recommended to seek the advice of a licensed attorney for specific legal advice about trademark and copyright laws, including any potential limitations or exceptions to these laws.

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