What is a trademark?

• A. A government grant for a product.
• B. A copyright symbol on a photo.
• C. A recognizable logo or tradename marked with a TM symbol.
• D. A patent for a new machine.

Answer: (C)

A trademark is a sign that identifies the source of goods or services and helps people recognise a specific brand. It can be a recognizable logo, a brand name, or even a distinctive slogan. The TM symbol shows that the owner claims the mark as theirs, and it can be used even before formal registration to indicate ownership and deter copying. Trademarks protect how a brand is presented to customers and how it’s distinguished from others, which is different from copyright (protection of creative works like photos) or patents (protection of new inventions). A government grant is not a trademark.