Questions about Trademark

Question

I would like to ask about the sentence that I use, such as Great things come from relentless effort, which is a continuous text. If searched for, no trademark infringement will be found. But if the word is taken alone, such as the word Effort, it will be trademarks. This is the sentence I use: Great. things come from relentless effort. Can I use it?

Giselle Ayala Mateus · Answer

The sentence "Great things come from relentless effort" seems as a common phrase and not unique enough to be subject to trademark protection as a whole. Trademarks typically protect specific words, phrases, logos, or symbols that distinctly identify a product or service and are used in commerce. Considering your sentence is a continuous phrase and apparently not being used to specifically identify a brand, it would not likely infringe on any existing trademarks. The combination of words in this manner is more generic, and common phrases usually don't qualify for trademark protection because they lack distinctiveness or originality. 
 
However, individual words like "effort" could be trademarked depending on the context, industry, and how they are used commercially. But this provably would not affect your ability to use the word in a general sense within a broader sentence. As long as you are not using it in a way that confuses consumers into thinking your product or service is associated with another business that holds the trademark, you should be safe. Always check specific trademarks to ensure there’s no conflict if you intend to use phrases commercially or in marketing. 
 
Additionally, you may want to consult with a trademark attorney before investing in this or any other trademark.  
 
THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

Yes, you can generally use the sentence "Great things come from relentless effort" without infringing on trademarks, as the sentence in its entirety is original and doesn't conflict with existing trademarks. Trademarks typically protect specific words or phrases associated with a brand in a particular context. Using a common word like "effort" in a broader, descriptive phrase is not likely to cause legal issues, even if the word alone is trademarked in other contexts. 
 
However, trademark protection applies depending on how the phrase is used in commerce. If you're using it in a way that competes with a brand that holds a trademark for "effort" or something similar, there could be a potential issue. Context matters, especially if you're using the phrase in branding, marketing, or product names. 
 
It’s important to check if your intended use conflicts with existing trademarks, especially if you're using the sentence in a commercial setting.

Q: Questions about Trademark