Distinction
/dɪˈstɪŋkʃən/
Definitions
- (n.) A legal concept referring to the act or process of recognizing or noting a difference, especially between rights, duties, categories, or claims.
The court made a clear distinction between the parties' contractual obligations.
- (n.) In trademark law, a quality of a mark that identifies and distinguishes the goods or services of one entity from those of another.
The plaintiff claimed the mark lacked distinctiveness to qualify for protection.
Forms
- distinctions
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In legal drafting, clarity in distinctions helps prevent ambiguity, particularly in defining rights or categories; note the term's role in trademark distinctiveness as a separate but related concept.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.