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How are multiple companies able to patent the same saying?
For example the saying "Don't tread on me" is patented by multiple companies. And I am sure none of them even invented the saying, since it is so old. How are they able to do this?
3 Answers
- STEVEN FLv 75 years ago
NO ONE can patent a saying. The phrase "Don't Tread on Me" has been around FAR too long to be protected by copyright.
HOWEVER, the specific design in which it is used CAN BE, and most likely IS trademarked.
- notnedLv 75 years ago
That particular phrase is not copyrightable as it is in the public domain (it was a proposed slogan for the united States dating back to the 1700s . a registered trademark such " coke it's the real thing" or " everything is riding on your tires" are protected by law ad no one else can legally infringe on it.
Patents are for devices and systems not for trademarks
- NeilLv 75 years ago
No. No one can patent a saying.
It can, however, be a trademark. And yes, multiple companies can use the same trademark, if they are in different businesses. A bar, a bicycle manufacturer, and a house cleaning service, say, could all use the same trademark.
