When selecting a trademark for your business, product or service, it's crucial to choose a mark that is legally protectable and enforceable. Two major pitfalls to avoid are marks that are deemed "merely descriptive" or "generic" by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Descriptive and generic marks face significant hurdles to registration and protection. Understanding the legal standards for descriptiveness and genericness, and strategies to avoid these objections, can help you develop a strong, defensible trademark from the start.