trademark distinctiveness

Trademark distinctiveness refers to how unique or recognizable a brand name, logo, or slogan is in identifying the source of a product or service. Trademarks can be categorized into several levels: 1. **Generic** - Common terms; cannot be trademarked. 2. **Descriptive** - Describes a feature; harder to protect. 3. **Suggestive** - Implies a characteristic; eligible for protection. 4. **Arbitrary** - Everyday words used in unrelated ways; strong protection. 5. **Fanciful** - Invented words with no prior meaning; strongest protection. Distinctiveness impacts a trademark's legal protection and consumer recognition. The more distinctive a trademark, the stronger its protection against infringement.