HOW MANY TRADEMARKS ARE THERE ?

1. Based on Nature/Representation

These are the common legal categories:

1. Word Mark – Protects words, letters, numbers (e.g., TATA, Infosys).

2. Device/Logo Mark – Protects graphical representation, symbols, or logos.

3. Tagline/ Slogan – Protects phrases used in branding (e.g., Nike – Just Do It).

4. Service Mark – Used to distinguish services (e.g., FedEx, Airtel).

5. Shape Mark – Protects the 3D shape of goods (e.g., Coca-Cola bottle).

6. Sound Mark – Protects distinctive sounds (e.g., Nokia tune).

7. Color Mark – Protects a specific color or combination of colors linked to a brand (e.g., Cadbury Purple).

8. Pattern Mark – Protects unique patterns associated with goods/services.

9. Motion Mark – Protects moving logos or animated features.

10. Combination Mark – Protects a mix of word + logo.

2. Based on Purpose

1. Certification Mark – Certifies standard, quality, or origin (e.g., ISI, Agmark).

2. Collective Mark – Used by members of an association or group (e.g., CA for Chartered Accountants).

3. Well-Known Mark – Recognized widely by the public (e.g., Google, Rolex).

3. Based on Distinctiveness

1. Fanciful Mark – Invented/coin words (e.g., Xerox, Kodak).

2. Arbitrary Mark – Common words used in unrelated industries (e.g., Apple for electronics).

3. Suggestive Mark – Hints at qualities of goods/services (e.g., Netflix).

4. Descriptive Mark – Directly describes the goods/services (registrable only with secondary meaning).

5. Generic Mark – Common terms; cannot be registered (e.g., Milk for dairy).

So, How Many Types Are There?

• At least 15–20 major types, depending on classification (nature, purpose, distinctiveness).

• Practically, most businesses register 4 core forms: Word mark, Logo, Tagline, and Device mark.