Slang Word Usage Guidelines

Summary

In the US, slang definitions of common words are not typically copyrighted or trademarked. Using such terms in a script is generally permissible, provided it doesnt infringe on personal rights or involve illegal activities. Always consult a lawyer for specific advice.

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Are slang defintions of common words copyrighted or trademarked? Like the slang definition of the word “extra” that came from social media at some point
In the US, copyright laws protect original works of authorship, not individual words or phrases. Trademark laws protect brand identifiers, not common words. So slang definitions are not typically copyrightable or trademarkable. However, use of such words can potentially infringe on others' rights if used in a confusing way in commerce.
What do you mean infringing if there’s no copyright or trademark?
Infringement without copyright or trademark could involve unfair competition or false advertising. If your use of a term confuses consumers or misrepresents a product, that might constitute an infringement. It's important to avoid deceptive practices in commerce.
It’s used as a word in part of a phrase of a script not to advertise a brand
Based on the context you provided, if the word is used in a script and not to advertise a brand, it's unlikely to infringe on any rights. However, if it's used in a defamatory or illegal context, it may pose legal issues. Always ensure your use is within the law.
What illegal context? Someone saying “you’re being extra” isn’t illegal
An illegal context could include libel, slander, or invasion of privacy. However, using the phrase "you're being extra" in normal conversation wouldn't typically be considered illegal or infringing on any rights under US law.
Yeah that’s an example of what I’d write in my script for a web series
That sounds like an interesting web series, Sean. As long as your usage of the phrase doesn't infringe on personal rights or perpetrate illegal activities, you should be fine. Are there any other legal concerns you have regarding your script?
Not exactly but what personal rights? That word can’t infringe privacy
Personal rights could include a person's right to privacy, right to publicity, and right against defamatory statements. In the context of your script, as long as you're not using someone's likeness without permission or portraying someone in a false light, you're unlikely to infringe personal rights.
Ok are there any other rights I should be aware of or am I good
You should also be aware of:
- Intellectual Property Rights: Don't use others' work without permission.
- Right to Fair Representation: Avoid stereotypes or harmful depictions.
- Right to Accuracy: Ensure any real-world information is correct.
Always consult a lawyer for specific advice.
Is this an IP right violation?
Based on your description, it doesn't appear to violate IP rights. However, context matters. Make sure that the entire script doesn't infringe on any other's copyright or personal rights. Always consult with a lawyer for a final say.
Why does it not violate that kind of thing?
Your usage of the term "extra" in a script doesn't constitute a violation because:
- It's a common term, not copyrighted or trademarked.
- It's not used in an illegal or defamatory context.
- It doesn't infringe on personal or IP rights.
Always consult a lawyer for a full review.
That last one doesn’t answer it
You mentioned that the last point doesn't answer your question. Could you please clarify which aspect you'd like more information on? Is it about personal rights, IP rights, or a different topic?
IP rights
Intellectual property rights are designed to protect creative works. For your script:
- Copyright: If your script is original, it won't infringe.
- Trademark: If you don't use others' branded terms, it won't infringe.
- Patent: Not relevant here.
Always consult a lawyer for details.
Ok so even though the word extra is a common word the slang definition doesn’t change its free public use?
Correct, Sean. The slang usage of a common word like "extra" doesn't change its public use. It's not protected by copyright or trademark laws and can be freely used in your script, provided it doesn't infringe on other legal rights or used in a defamatory or illegal context.
What other legal rights though?
Other legal rights to consider are:
- Defamation: Avoid making false statements that harm the reputation of an individual.
- Invasion of Privacy: Respect the privacy of individuals. Don't disclose private facts without permission.
- Right to Publicity: Don't use someone's name, image, or likeness for commercial gain without their consent. Always consult a lawyer for a detailed review.
What is likeness?
In legal terms, "likeness" refers to a representation of a person's appearance or characteristics. Using someone's likeness means using their image, voice, name, or other identifiable features, typically for commercial purposes, without their consent. This could infringe upon their right to publicity.
Oh, well I don’t do that and when I draw the characters I try to make them distinct enough from people I know in real life, similarities aren’t intentional.
That's good practice, Sean. Making sure your characters are distinct and not directly attributable to real-life individuals can help avoid potential legal issues related to likeness. Do keep up the good work and feel free to ask if you have any more legal questions.
All my characters are fictional, they just may have small features that are similar to people Ik in real life but aren’t supposed to be them at all and are all drawn by me.
That's a great approach, Sean. As long as the similarities are not so striking that a reasonable person would identify them with real individuals, you're on the right track. Are there any other legal questions you have about your web series or script?
Is Garageband free for commercial purposes?
Garageband, a product of Apple Inc., is free and can be used for commercial purposes under certain conditions. However, some sounds, loops, and content might be subject to additional restrictions. You should review Apple's Software License Agreement for Garageband for specific details.