Phonetic searches involve searching for alternate or rearranged spellings of a desired mark. Some examples of words that could lead to consumer confusion include Mike Crow Soft, General-Elect Rick, Phizor, Lee Vys, Peels Berry, and Ny Key. While these examples might seem to clearly conflict with famous brand names, finding such similarly-sounding matches can be challenging. Anagram matches (such as naive and Evian) also need to be considered in performing comprehensive searches for a desired mark in which the stakes are significant. Intellectual property firms specialize in performing such searches as part of an IP strategy assessment. An experienced search analyst has advanced search tools and strategies to employ to elucidate such varied, letter sequences.

FlashPoint IP,  a leader among intellectual property firms, provides all types of professional trademark searches for registered and unregistered marks worldwide, as well as national and international trademark registration. We assist in the candidate selection process of brand names to maximize IP value and protection. Contact us to discuss your options regarding IP strategy and positioning, and to find out more about FPIP trademark searches. On Your Mark, Get Clearance, Go!