Why Foreign Brand Names Can Get Your Trademark Rejected

Securing Your Brand

In today’s episode of Securing Your Brand, co-hosts Melissa Jeda and Holly McFall delve into the risks and legal nuances of using non-English or made-up words in your brand name. While a foreign word might feel creative or meaningful, it could also carry unintended translations, cultural misinterpretations, or worse, get your trademark denied or fined by the USPTO. This episode breaks down why translations matter, what trademark examiners are really looking for, and how to avoid common pitfalls when building a global-facing brand.

Melissa Jeda and Holly McFall are trademark attorneys and co-founders of SecureMark Legal, a firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and creators protect and grow their brand identity. Through their podcast, they unpack key legal concepts in accessible, real-world terms, making brand protection both approachable and actionable.

Expect to Learn

• Why made-up or foreign words aren’t always “safe” from trademark conflict
• What the USPTO requires when it comes to translations and meaning
• How cultural vs. literal meaning can impact your application
• The risk of unintended or offensive translations
• Steps to take before applying to avoid fraud allegations or cancellation

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

• [00:00] - Introduction to Brand Name Risks
• [01:30] - The Challenge of Non-English Words
• [02:00] - Comprehensive Search Process
• [03:10] - The Chevy Nova Example
• [05:00] - Literal vs. Cultural Meaning
• [06:00] - Potential Consequences of Misunderstanding Translations
• [07:00] - Examples of Misleading Brand Names
• [09:00] - Foreign Words and Generic Terms
• [11:00] - Ensuring Cultural Sensitivity in Brand Names
• [12:00] - Final Thoughts on Brand Naming

Connect with Holly McFall

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollymcfall/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatorlaw19/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holly.mcfall

Connect with Melissa Jeda

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-jeda-29108813b/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mhjeda/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alizajeda

Connect with SecureMark Legal

• Website: https://securemarklegal.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/securemark-legal/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/securemark_legal
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/securemarklegal/

Subscribe to Securing Your Brand for expert guidance on building and protecting your business brand.

Let us know your thoughts or questions in the comments!

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