Trademark Strength Scorer
How registrable is your brand name? We analyse distinctiveness, descriptiveness risk, and phonetic uniqueness to give you a clear score. Included with Pro, IP Agent and Enterprise plans.
Pro tool · runs in your dashboard
Score proposed names for distinctiveness, descriptiveness risk, memorability and UK register conflicts in your dashboard.
How does the Strength Scorer work?
Rate how distinctive and therefore registrable a name is, from 0 to 100, and place it on the distinctiveness spectrum from generic to fanciful. The score reflects the factors that push it up or down, with a conflict-pressure adjustment if similar live marks exist.
The trademark distinctiveness spectrum
Trademark law ranks names on a spectrum of distinctiveness. The stronger (more distinctive) your mark, the easier it is to register and the broader protection you receive.
| Category | Strength | Example | Registrable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fanciful | Strongest | Kodak, Xerox | Yes - easiest to register |
| Arbitrary | Very strong | Apple (computers), Shell (fuel) | Yes - broadly protectable |
| Suggestive | Strong | Netflix, Airbus | Yes - with some effort |
| Descriptive | Weak | Quick Print, Best Value | Difficult - needs acquired distinctiveness |
| Generic | None | Computer, Shoes | No - never registrable |
What we analyse
- Distinctiveness level - Where your mark falls on the spectrum
- Descriptiveness risk - Whether your name describes your products/services
- Phonetic uniqueness - How different your mark sounds from existing registrations
- Length and memorability - Practical factors that affect brand strength
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a trademark strong?
Strong trademarks are distinctive and don't describe the product or service. Fanciful marks (invented words like "Kodak") are the strongest. Descriptive names are the weakest and hardest to register.
Can a descriptive name be trademarked?
Purely descriptive names are very difficult to register. However, they can gain protection through "acquired distinctiveness" - evidence that the public associates the name with your brand through long use and advertising.
What does the score mean?
A distinctiveness rating on the Abercrombie spectrum. Higher means more registrable and more defensible.
Is a high score a guarantee of registration?
No. It is an indicative guide, not an examiner's decision or legal advice.