Word formation 2

1. Examiners are encouraged to list at this stage all grounds for refusal which are (apply).

2. A description which is ambiguous and contradictory is not (accept).

3. Advertising slogans are (object) under Article 7(1)(b) EUTMR when the relevant public perceives them only as a mere promotional formula.

4. An abstract claim, in particular as to two colours ‘in any possible combination’ or ‘in any proportion’, is not (allow) and leads to an objection under Article 7(1)(a) EUTMR.

5. Colours in combination with other words may be (register) if the sign as a whole is distinctive: ICE COFFEE, VANILLA ICE and MISTY BLUE.

6. The operating instructions can be in paper (printed) format, or in an electronic format, such as a recording on a disc, or as a (download) or non- (download) document available at the manufacturer’s web-site.

7. If the sign by its own nature is not graphically (represent), a description can be sufficient provided that this description is clear, precise, self-contained, easily (access), intelligible, durable and objective.

8. A slogan is (object) under Article 7(1)(c) EUTMR if it immediately conveys information about the kind, quality, intended purpose or other characteristics of the goods or services.

9. Descriptive or non-distinctive verbal elements are unlikely to be (accept) when they are combined with basic/simple/banal shapes/figures/designs, geometric or not.

10. Furthermore, objections should also be raised against terms which describe (desire) characteristics of the goods and services.