Discussion:
What is the name of your state? Florida
Hello. Can someone tell me where I might find out if someone owns copyright to a word or phrase?
Thanks so much.
Answer:
Hello. Can someone tell me where I might find out if someone owns copyright to a word or phrase? Words and short phrases are generally not covered by copyright, but you can search for registered copyrights.
Words and phrases used in commerce, however, can be trademarked. You can search at for registered trademarks.
However, note that for both copyright and trademark, lack of a registration does not necessarily mean that nobody is trying to claim copyright and trademark rights -- however, the government sites are a good place to start.