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A1 noun #3,200 よく出る 17分で読める

patent

上位3,200

練習する例文メモとヒント patent 30秒で

解説 patent in your Level:

At the A1 level, think of a patent as a special 'rule paper' for a new idea. Imagine you invent a new kind of toy that no one has ever seen before. You want to be the only person who can sell it. You go to the government and show them your toy. If they agree it is new, they give you a patent. This patent is a document that says, 'Only you can make and sell this toy for a long time.' If other people try to sell your toy without asking you, they are breaking the law. It is like a 'keep out' sign for your invention. People use this word when they talk about big companies like Apple or Samsung making new phones. They want to protect their ideas so other companies cannot copy them. It is a very important word for business and for people who like to invent things. In simple sentences, you can say, 'He has a patent for his invention,' or 'The company filed for a patent.' It is a noun, which means it is a thing you can have or hold.

At the A2 level, a patent is defined as an official legal document that protects an invention. When an inventor creates something unique, like a new engine or a special medical tool, they apply for a patent from the government. If the patent is granted, the inventor has the 'exclusive right' to that invention. This means for a certain number of years (usually 20), no one else can make, use, or sell that invention without the inventor's permission. It is a way to reward people for their hard work and creativity. Without patents, people might be afraid to share their ideas because someone else could steal them. You will often see the words 'patent pending' on new products, which means the inventor has asked for a patent but is still waiting for the final document. It is a countable noun, so you can have 'one patent' or 'many patents.' In business, having patents makes a company more valuable because it shows they have unique technology that others cannot use.

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At the B1 level, the word patent refers to a specific type of intellectual property right. It is a legal contract between an inventor and the state. The inventor agrees to share the details of how their invention works with the public, and in return, the state gives them a monopoly over that invention for a limited time. This period of protection allows the inventor to earn money from their idea without competition. However, not everything can be patented. An invention must be 'novel' (new), 'non-obvious' (not something any expert could easily think of), and 'useful.' The process of obtaining a patent is called 'filing a patent application.' It can be expensive and take several years. You might hear about 'patent infringement,' which is when a company uses a patented idea without a license. This often leads to 'patent lawsuits.' Understanding this word is crucial for discussing technology, law, and the economy, as patents are the primary way that innovation is managed in the modern world.

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At the B2 level, 'patent' is understood as a sophisticated legal instrument that balances the interests of inventors and the general public. The primary function of a patent is to incentivize innovation by providing a temporary period of market exclusivity. This allows companies, particularly in research-heavy industries like biotechnology or aerospace, to recover their research and development (R&D) costs. To be patentable, an invention must satisfy three strict criteria: novelty, inventive step (non-obviousness), and industrial applicability. The 'claims' section of a patent is particularly important, as it defines the legal boundaries of the protection. If a competitor's product falls within those claims, it constitutes patent infringement. We also discuss 'patent portfolios,' which are collections of patents held by a single entity to strengthen their market position. The expiration of a patent is a significant event, often referred to as a 'patent cliff,' especially in the pharmaceutical industry where it allows for the introduction of generic competition, significantly lowering prices for consumers.

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At the C1 level, the discourse around patents involves complex legal, ethical, and economic considerations. A patent is not merely a document but a strategic asset in global trade. Professionals discuss 'patent prosecution,' the process of negotiating with patent examiners to secure the broadest possible protection. There is also the concept of 'patent litigation,' where companies engage in high-stakes legal battles to enforce their rights or invalidate a competitor's patent by proving the existence of 'prior art.' The term 'patent troll' (or Non-Practicing Entity) is used to describe entities that leverage patents for litigation rather than production, which is a controversial aspect of the IP system. Furthermore, international patent law, governed by treaties like the TRIPS Agreement, is a key topic. C1 learners should understand the nuance that a patent is a 'negative right'—it does not grant the right to practice the invention, but rather the right to exclude others. This distinction is vital in 'freedom to operate' (FTO) analyses, where a company must ensure its new product doesn't infringe on existing patents held by others.

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At the C2 level, 'patent' is analyzed within the broader framework of jurisprudence and global innovation policy. It represents a delicate equilibrium between private incentive and the public's right to access knowledge. Philosophically, the patent system is often justified through Lockean labor theory or utilitarianism—arguing that society is better off when inventors are rewarded. However, C2 discussions also touch upon the 'anti-commons' problem, where an overabundance of patents can actually stifle innovation by making it too complex and expensive to navigate the 'patent thicket.' The use of patents in 'evergreening'—where pharmaceutical companies make minor changes to a drug to extend its patent life—is a topic of intense ethical debate regarding global health equity. Additionally, the C2 learner should be aware of the 'adjectival' use of patent, meaning 'obvious' or 'plainly visible,' which shares an etymological root with the noun (from the Latin 'patere', to lie open). Whether discussing 'patent defects' in a legal contract or the 'patent absurdity' of a political claim, the word denotes a high degree of clarity and officiality that permeates professional English.

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練習する例文メモとヒント

patent 30秒で

A patent is a legal document protecting inventions from being copied by others for a specific period, usually twenty years.
It grants an inventor the exclusive right to make, use, and sell their creation, functioning as a temporary monopoly.
In exchange for protection, the inventor must publicly share the technical details of how their invention works.
Commonly used in tech and medicine, patents are essential for business competition and encouraging new scientific research.

The concept of a patent is a cornerstone of modern innovation and legal systems worldwide. At its most fundamental level, a patent is a form of intellectual property that gives its owner the legal right to exclude others from making, using, or selling an invention for a limited period of years in exchange for publishing an enabling public disclosure of the invention. This 'social contract' between the inventor and the state is designed to encourage the advancement of science and the useful arts. When we speak of a patent, we are referring to a document that serves as a shield, protecting the investments of time, money, and intellectual labor that go into creating something entirely new. The term is most frequently used in the context of technology, pharmaceuticals, and engineering, where the stakes of research and development are incredibly high. For instance, a pharmaceutical company might spend billions of dollars developing a new life-saving drug; without a patent, a competitor could simply analyze the chemical composition and produce a generic version immediately, depriving the original inventor of the chance to recoup their costs. Thus, the patent provides a temporary monopoly that incentivizes the risk-taking inherent in innovation.

Legal Monopoly: A patent is not a right to use an invention, but rather a right to exclude others from using it. This distinction is crucial in patent law.
Public Disclosure: In exchange for protection, the inventor must reveal exactly how the invention works, allowing others to learn from the technology and improve upon it once the patent expires.
Territoriality: Patents are territorial rights. An Australian patent only gives the owner rights within Australia; to protect an invention globally, one must file in multiple jurisdictions.

Historically, the idea of patents dates back to the Venetian Patent Statute of 1474, which was the first systematic approach to protecting inventions. Over the centuries, the process has become highly formalized. To obtain a patent, an invention must meet specific criteria: it must be new (novelty), it must involve an inventive step (non-obviousness), and it must be capable of industrial application (utility). If an idea is already public knowledge—what lawyers call 'prior art'—it cannot be patented. This ensures that patents are only granted for truly original contributions to human knowledge. People use the word 'patent' when discussing business strategy, where a 'patent portfolio' can be a company's most valuable asset, or in legal disputes where one company accuses another of 'patent infringement.' It is a word that carries the weight of authority, law, and the cutting edge of human creativity.

The tech giant filed a new patent for a foldable screen technology that could revolutionize the smartphone industry.

Without a valid patent, the small startup was unable to prevent larger corporations from copying their unique water filtration system.

The expiration of the patent on the popular allergy medication led to a significant drop in its market price as generic versions became available.

She holds several patents in the field of renewable energy, specifically concerning high-efficiency solar panels.

The legal team spent months searching for prior art to challenge the validity of the competitor's patent.

In everyday conversation, you might hear someone say 'that’s a patent lie' or 'his frustration was patent.' In these cases, 'patent' is used as an adjective meaning 'obvious' or 'clear.' However, as a noun, it strictly refers to the legal document and the rights it confers. The process of getting a patent, known as 'patent prosecution,' involves a rigorous examination by a patent office (like the USPTO in the United States or the EPO in Europe). This process can take years and requires detailed technical drawings and 'claims' that define the exact boundaries of the invention. Because of this complexity, 'patent' is a word often associated with lawyers, engineers, and high-level corporate strategy. Understanding the noun 'patent' is essential for anyone interested in how the modern world builds, protects, and shares new technology.

Utility Patent: The most common type, covering new and useful processes, machines, articles of manufacture, or compositions of matter.
Design Patent: Protects the unique visual qualities of a manufactured item, such as the shape of a specific smartphone or the pattern on a piece of furniture.

Using the word 'patent' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a countable noun and the specific verbs it typically pairs with. Because a patent is a legal instrument, the language surrounding it is often formal and precise. When an inventor creates something new, they 'file for a patent' or 'apply for a patent.' This describes the initial act of submitting documentation to a government office. Once the office reviews and approves the application, they 'grant a patent' or 'issue a patent' to the inventor. From that point on, the inventor 'holds a patent' or 'owns a patent.' These verbs describe the different stages of the patent's lifecycle, and using the wrong one can change the meaning of your sentence significantly.

Application Phase: Common phrases include 'pending patent,' 'patent application,' and 'to seek a patent.' Example: 'The company is currently seeking a patent for its new battery technology.'
Enforcement Phase: When a patent is active, you might 'enforce a patent' against competitors or 'defend a patent' in court. Example: 'They had to defend their patent against several legal challenges from rivals.'
Violation Phase: If someone uses the invention without permission, they 'infringe on a patent' or commit 'patent infringement.' Example: 'The jury found that the competitor did indeed infringe on the original patent.'

In a business context, the word 'patent' often appears in compound nouns. A 'patent attorney' is a specialized lawyer who helps inventors navigate the legal system. A 'patent office' is the government agency responsible for managing applications. A 'patent troll' is a derogatory term for a person or company that buys patents solely to sue others for infringement, rather than to actually build products. These compounds are essential for discussing the economic and legal landscape of innovation. Furthermore, the word 'patent' is often modified by adjectives that describe its status or scope. A 'broad patent' covers a wide range of applications, while a 'narrow patent' is very specific. A 'valid patent' is one that is legally sound, whereas an 'invalid patent' can be overturned in court.

After five years of development, the research team finally received a patent for their unique carbon-capture method.

The startup’s valuation increased significantly once they secured a patent on their proprietary software algorithm.

The court ruled that the patent was unenforceable because the inventor had failed to disclose prior art.

He was hired as a patent examiner, responsible for reviewing hundreds of technical applications every year.

The company decided to release their patent to the public to encourage the widespread adoption of electric vehicle charging standards.

Finally, consider the temporal aspect of patents. They do not last forever. Most utility patents expire after 20 years from the filing date. Therefore, we often talk about a 'patent expiring' or a product 'coming off patent.' When a drug's patent expires, it enters the 'public domain,' and other companies can produce it as a 'generic.' This cycle of protection followed by public access is the fundamental mechanism by which patents balance private profit and public benefit. In your writing, using phrases like 'upon the expiration of the patent' or 'during the life of the patent' will help you sound more professional and precise. Whether you are writing a business report, a legal essay, or a technical manual, mastering these collocations and sentence structures will allow you to discuss innovation with clarity and authority.

Common Verb Pairings: To apply for, to grant, to issue, to hold, to own, to infringe, to license, to expire, to revoke.
Common Adjective Pairings: Utility, design, pending, valid, broad, narrow, expired, international, proprietary.

The word 'patent' is ubiquitous in environments where new ideas are the primary currency. If you spend any time in the world of technology, pharmaceuticals, or high-stakes business, you will hear it constantly. In the tech industry, patents are often the subject of massive news stories. You might hear a news anchor report on a 'patent war' between two smartphone giants, where each company sues the other over the way icons are arranged on a screen or how a battery manages power. In these contexts, patents are portrayed as strategic weapons used to maintain market dominance. On television shows like 'Shark Tank' or 'Dragon's Den,' the investors (the Sharks or Dragons) almost always ask the entrepreneurs, 'Do you have a patent on this?' This question is vital because it determines whether the business can protect its product from being copied by larger, more established companies. In this setting, a patent is a symbol of value and defensibility.

Tech News: Reporting on Apple, Google, or Samsung often involves 'patent litigation' or the filing of 'futuristic patents' that hint at upcoming products.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Discussions about drug prices frequently center on 'patent cliffs,' which occur when a blockbuster drug loses its patent protection and cheaper generics enter the market.
Business Education: MBA students and aspiring entrepreneurs study 'patent strategy' as a way to create a 'moat' around their business, making it harder for competitors to attack.

Beyond news and business, you will encounter the word in academic and legal settings. University researchers often have to decide whether to publish their findings in a journal or file a patent first. In legal dramas or actual courtrooms, lawyers argue over 'patent claims'—the specific sentences in a patent document that define what exactly is protected. You might also hear the word in historical contexts, such as when learning about famous inventors like Thomas Edison (who held 1,093 US patents) or Nikola Tesla. In these stories, the patent is the official record of their genius and their contribution to human progress. Interestingly, the word also appears in the medical world, though in a different sense; a 'patent ductus arteriosus' is a medical condition where a blood vessel remains open when it should have closed, showing the word's root meaning of 'open.'

'If you don't have a patent, why should I invest? Anyone could just copy your idea tomorrow,' the investor argued on the show.

The evening news featured a segment on the 'patent cliff' facing several major pharmaceutical companies this year.

In the history lecture, we discussed how the patent for the steam engine helped fuel the Industrial Revolution.

The podcast explained how 'patent trolls' buy up vague patents to extract settlements from small software developers.

During the board meeting, the CEO emphasized the need to expand their patent portfolio in Asian markets.

In a more casual sense, you might hear 'patent' used to describe a specific type of shiny leather ('patent leather'). This leather is treated to have a high-gloss, mirror-like finish and is common in formal shoes and handbags. While this seems unrelated to inventions, the process for making this leather was itself a patented invention in the 19th century, and the name stuck. Whether you are hearing about a multi-billion dollar lawsuit, a shiny pair of shoes, or a groundbreaking new drug, the word 'patent' is always linked to the idea of something being official, protected, or clearly defined. It is a word that bridges the gap between the abstract world of ideas and the concrete world of law and commerce. Pay attention to it in the news, and you will see just how much of our modern economy is built on this single legal concept.

Patent Leather: A glossy, coated leather originally protected by a patent, now a standard term in the fashion industry.
Patent Pending: A notice on a product indicating that a patent application has been filed but the patent has not yet been granted.

The most common mistake people make with the word 'patent' is confusing it with other forms of intellectual property, such as 'copyright' and 'trademark.' While they all provide legal protection, they protect very different things. A patent is for inventions—new machines, processes, or chemical formulas. A copyright is for original works of authorship, like books, movies, music, and software code. A trademark is for brand identifiers, like logos, slogans, and company names. You cannot 'patent a book' or 'copyright a new engine design.' Using these terms interchangeably is a sign of a non-expert and can lead to serious misunderstandings in business and legal contexts. Always remember: Patents protect *how things work*, copyrights protect *how things are expressed*, and trademarks protect *where things come from* (the brand).

Patent vs. Copyright: Mistake: 'I need to patent my new novel.' Correct: 'I need to copyright my new novel.' Patents are for functional inventions, not creative writing.
Patent vs. Trademark: Mistake: 'Nike has a patent on their 'Swoosh' logo.' Correct: 'Nike has a trademark on their 'Swoosh' logo.' Logos are brand identifiers.
The 'Right to Make' Fallacy: Mistake: Thinking a patent gives you the right to make your invention. Fact: It only gives you the right to *stop others* from making it. You might still be blocked by someone else's patent!

Another frequent error involves the duration and scope of a patent. Many people assume that once you have a patent, you have it forever. In reality, most patents last only 20 years from the date of filing. After that, the invention enters the public domain, and anyone can use it for free. This is why you see 'generic' drugs appear after a certain amount of time. Furthermore, people often forget that patents are territorial. Having a US patent does not protect your invention in China or Germany. To have global protection, you must apply for patents in each individual country or through international agreements like the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). Failing to understand this 'territoriality' can be a costly mistake for businesses looking to expand internationally.

Incorrect: 'He secured a patent for his company name to stop others from using it.'

Correct: 'He secured a trademark for his company name to stop others from using it.'

Incorrect: 'The patent on the wheel is still held by the original inventor's family.'

Correct: 'The patent on the wheel expired thousands of years ago (if it ever existed).'

Incorrect: 'My US patent means nobody in the world can copy me.'

Linguistically, there is a common mistake in using 'patent' as a verb. While you can 'patent an invention,' you cannot 'patent a person' or 'patent an idea' that isn't concrete. The invention must be a tangible thing or a specific process. Furthermore, when using the noun, many learners forget to use articles correctly. It is 'a patent,' 'the patent,' or 'patents' (plural). You wouldn't say 'He has patent,' but rather 'He has a patent.' Finally, be careful with the pronunciation. Mispronouncing it as 'pay-tent' in a context where 'pat-ent' is expected (or vice versa) can sometimes lead to confusion, though both are technically acceptable in different regions. Focus on the 'short a' sound (like in 'hat') to be safe in most international business settings.

Article Usage: Always use an article or possessive: 'my patent,' 'the patent,' 'an international patent.'
Abstract vs. Concrete: You patent an invention (concrete), but you cannot patent a general idea (abstract) like 'a way to be happy.'

When discussing the protection of ideas, 'patent' is part of a larger family of terms related to intellectual property (IP). Understanding the nuances between these words will help you choose the right one for your context. The most common alternatives or related terms are 'copyright,' 'trademark,' 'trade secret,' and 'license.' While they all deal with ownership of information or ideas, they serve different purposes. A 'trade secret' is perhaps the most interesting alternative. Unlike a patent, which requires you to reveal how your invention works, a trade secret depends on keeping the information hidden. The formula for Coca-Cola is a trade secret, not a patent. If it were patented, the formula would have been made public decades ago and would now be free for anyone to use. By choosing a trade secret, the company can keep the formula private forever, provided they can actually keep the secret.

Copyright: Protects creative expressions (art, music, literature). Duration is much longer than a patent (usually the life of the author plus 70 years).
Trademark: Protects brand identifiers (logos, names). Can last indefinitely as long as the brand is in use and the registration is renewed.
Trade Secret: Protects confidential business information (formulas, methods). No expiration date, but no protection if someone else discovers the secret independently.

Another important word is 'license.' A patent owner might choose to 'license' their patent to another company. This means they give the other company permission to use the invention in exchange for money, usually called 'royalties.' In this context, 'license' is the permission, while 'patent' is the right itself. You might also hear the term 'proprietary technology.' This is a broader, less formal term that simply means the technology is owned by a specific company and is not public. It might be protected by patents, trade secrets, or both. In academic writing, you might use 'intellectual property rights' (IPR) as a collective term to refer to patents, copyrights, and trademarks all at once. This is useful when discussing the general concept of legal protection for innovation.

The company opted for trade secret protection rather than a patent to avoid disclosing their unique manufacturing process.

They granted a license to a smaller firm, allowing them to use the patented technology in exchange for a 5% royalty fee.

The trademark on the logo is as valuable to the brand as the patents on their hardware.

Authors rely on copyright to protect their stories, whereas engineers rely on patents to protect their designs.

The government is reviewing its intellectual property laws to better support small inventors.

Finally, consider the word 'utility.' In many countries, there is a 'utility model' which is like a 'mini-patent.' It is easier and cheaper to get but lasts for a shorter time (usually 6-10 years). This is a great alternative for smaller inventions that might not meet the high standards of a full patent. Also, the term 'prior art' is essential when discussing patents; it refers to any evidence that your invention is already known. If prior art exists, your patent application will be rejected. By mastering these related terms, you can navigate the complex world of innovation and law with much greater precision. Whether you are an inventor, a business person, or a student, knowing the difference between a patent, a trade secret, and a copyright is fundamental to understanding how ideas are valued and protected in the 21st century.

Royalty: The payment made to a patent holder for the right to use their invention.
Prior Art: Any existing knowledge or inventions that might prove a 'new' invention isn't actually new.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The word is called 'patent' (lying open) because, unlike a secret, the document is open for anyone to read. The government wants the information to be public so everyone can learn from it, even while the inventor is protected.

発音ガイド

UK /ˈpeɪ.tənt/ or /ˈpæt.ənt/

US /ˈpæt.ənt/

The stress is on the first syllable: PAT-ent.

韻が合う語

Latent (for the pay-tent version) Blatant (for the pay-tent version) Apparent (near rhyme) Hat-ent (slang/made up) Advent (near rhyme) Accent (near rhyme) Recent (near rhyme) Decent (near rhyme)

よくある間違い

Pronouncing it as 'pa-TENT' with stress on the second syllable.
Using a long 'a' (pay-tent) in American contexts where it sounds unusual.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'patient' (/ˈpeɪ.ʃənt/).
Forgetting the 't' sound at the end.
Muddling the middle 'e' sound so it sounds like 'pat-ant'.

難易度

読解 3/5

The word is simple, but the documents it refers to are very difficult to read.

ライティング 2/5

Easy to use correctly if you remember it is a countable noun.

スピーキング 2/5

Common in business and tech, essential for professional fluency.

リスニング 2/5

Clearly audible, though can be confused with 'patient' if the speaker is fast.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

Invention Law Idea Protect Document

次に学ぶ

Intellectual property Copyright Trademark Infringement Monopoly

上級

Prior art Non-obviousness Patent prosecution Litigation Royalty

知っておくべき文法

Countable Nouns

He has *a* patent. (Not: He has patent.)

Prepositional Verbs

Apply *for* a patent.

Attributive Nouns

The *patent* office. (Patent acts like an adjective here.)

Passive Voice in Formal Writing

A patent *was granted* to the inventor.

Possessive with Inanimate Objects

The *patent's* expiration date.

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レベル別の例文

He has a patent for a new toy.

Il a un brevet pour un nouveau jouet.

'A patent' is a countable noun using the indefinite article 'a'.

The company filed a patent yesterday.

L'entreprise a déposé un brevet hier.

'File a patent' is a common verb-noun collocation.

Is there a patent for this idea?

Existe-t-il un brevet pour cette idée ?

This is a question form using the existential 'there is'.

I want to see the patent document.

Je veux voir le document du brevet.

'Patent' acts as an attributive noun modifying 'document'.

She owns three patents.

Elle possède trois brevets.

Plural form 'patents' used with a number.

The patent protects his invention.

Le brevet protège son invention.

The verb 'protects' shows the function of the noun.

This patent is very old.

Ce brevet est très vieux.

Using 'this' as a demonstrative adjective with 'patent'.

They got a patent for the light bulb.

Ils ont obtenu un brevet pour l'ampoule.

'Get a patent' is an informal way to say 'be granted a patent'.

You must apply for a patent to protect your work.

Vous devez demander un brevet pour protéger votre travail.

'Apply for' is the standard prepositional verb for the process.

The government granted the patent last month.

Le gouvernement a accordé le brevet le mois dernier.

'Grant' is the formal verb for giving a patent.

Does your new product have a patent?

Votre nouveau produit a-t-il un brevet ?

Interrogative sentence in the present simple tense.

He is a famous inventor with many patents.

C'est un inventeur célèbre avec de nombreux brevets.

'With many patents' is a prepositional phrase describing the inventor.

The patent gives them the exclusive right to sell it.

Le brevet leur donne le droit exclusif de le vendre.

'Exclusive right' is a key legal phrase associated with patents.

They are waiting for their patent to be approved.

Ils attendent que leur brevet soit approuvé.

Passive construction 'to be approved' following the noun.

The patent office is in the city center.

Le bureau des brevets se trouve au centre-ville.

'Patent office' is a compound noun.

Without a patent, anyone can copy your design.

Sans brevet, n'importe qui peut copier votre design.

'Without a patent' sets up a conditional situation.

The company spent millions to secure the patent.

L'entreprise a dépensé des millions pour obtenir le brevet.

'Secure' is a more formal synonym for 'get' or 'obtain'.

Patent infringement is a serious legal issue.

La contrefaçon de brevet est un problème juridique grave.

'Patent infringement' is a compound noun serving as the subject.

They filed a patent application for the new software.

Ils ont déposé une demande de brevet pour le nouveau logiciel.

'Patent application' refers to the request, not yet the granted right.

The patent will expire in five years.

Le brevet expirera dans cinq ans.

'Expire' is the standard verb for the end of a patent's life.

He holds a patent on a unique water filtration system.

Il détient un brevet sur un système unique de filtration de l'eau.

'Hold a patent on' uses the preposition 'on' to specify the subject.

Is the patent valid in other countries?

Le brevet est-il valable dans d'autres pays ?

'Valid' is the adjective used to describe a legally active patent.

The inventor disclosed the technology in the patent.

L'inventeur a divulgué la technologie dans le brevet.

'Disclose' refers to the requirement of sharing the invention details.

They are involved in a patent dispute with a rival.

Ils sont impliqués dans un litige de brevet avec un rival.

'Patent dispute' describes a legal disagreement.

The drug's patent prevents generic versions from entering the market.

Le brevet du médicament empêche les versions génériques d'entrer sur le marché.

Possessive form 'drug's patent' used as the subject.

A broad patent can effectively block all competition.

Un brevet large peut bloquer efficacement toute concurrence.

'Broad' describes a patent with a wide scope of protection.

They are building a strong patent portfolio to attract investors.

Ils constituent un solide portefeuille de brevets pour attirer les investisseurs.

'Patent portfolio' is a key business term for multiple patents.

The court ruled that the patent was invalid due to prior art.

Le tribunal a jugé que le brevet était invalide en raison de l'état de la technique.

'Prior art' is a technical term for existing knowledge.

The startup was sued for patent infringement by a larger firm.

La startup a été poursuivie pour contrefaçon de brevet par une entreprise plus importante.

Passive voice 'was sued' with the reason 'for patent infringement'.

Licensing their patent provides a steady stream of revenue.

L'octroi de licences pour leur brevet assure un flux régulier de revenus.

Gerund 'licensing' as the subject of the sentence.

The patent claims define the scope of the legal protection.

Les revendications du brevet définissent la portée de la protection juridique.

'Patent claims' are the specific legal definitions within the document.

They hope to obtain an international patent through the PCT.

Ils espèrent obtenir un brevet international par le biais du PCT.

'International patent' and 'PCT' refer to global protection strategies.

The patent prosecution process can be arduous and expensive.

Le processus de poursuite de brevet peut être ardu et coûteux.

'Patent prosecution' refers to the legal negotiation process.

They are accused of being a patent troll, acquiring IP solely for litigation.

Ils sont accusés d'être un 'patent troll', acquérant de la PI uniquement pour le litige.

'Patent troll' is a critical, informal term for a specific business model.

The expiration of the patent led to a significant 'patent cliff' for the company.

L'expiration du brevet a entraîné une importante 'falaise de brevets' pour l'entreprise.

'Patent cliff' is a metaphorical term for a sudden revenue drop.

The attorney specialized in patent litigation involving biotechnology.

L'avocat s'est spécialisé dans les litiges de brevets impliquant la biotechnologie.

'Patent litigation' is the act of suing or being sued over patents.

The patent was overturned because the claims were deemed too obvious.

Le brevet a été annulé parce que les revendications ont été jugées trop évidentes.

'Overturned' and 'deemed' are high-level formal verbs.

A defensive patent strategy involves filing patents to prevent others from suing.

Une stratégie de brevet défensive consiste à déposer des brevets pour empêcher les autres de poursuivre.

'Defensive patent strategy' is a complex business concept.

The pharmaceutical giant is seeking to extend its patent through evergreening.

Le géant pharmaceutique cherche à prolonger son brevet par le biais de l''evergreening'.

'Evergreening' is a C1-level term for extending patent life.

The patent office examiner requested several amendments to the application.

L'examinateur de l'office des brevets a demandé plusieurs modifications à la demande.

'Examiner' and 'amendments' are specific to the legal process.

The philosophical debate centers on whether patents stifle or foster innovation.

Le débat philosophique porte sur la question de savoir si les brevets étouffent ou favorisent l'innovation.

'Stifle' and 'foster' are sophisticated verbs for C2 level.

The patent thicket makes it nearly impossible for new entrants to compete.

Le maquis de brevets rend presque impossible la concurrence pour les nouveaux entrants.

'Patent thicket' is an advanced metaphor for complex IP landscapes.

Standard-essential patents (SEPs) must be licensed on FRAND terms.

Les brevets essentiels à une norme (SEP) doivent faire l'objet d'une licence aux conditions FRAND.

'Standard-essential patents' and 'FRAND' are highly specialized terms.

The court's interpretation of patent eligibility has shifted significantly.

L'interprétation par le tribunal de l'admissibilité des brevets a considérablement changé.

'Patent eligibility' refers to whether a subject can be patented.

The company's valuation is largely predicated on its robust patent portfolio.

La valorisation de l'entreprise repose largement sur son solide portefeuille de brevets.

'Predicated on' is a very formal C2 structure.

Compulsory licensing of patents remains a contentious issue in global health.

L'octroi de licences obligatoires pour les brevets reste une question litigieuse dans le domaine de la santé mondiale.

'Compulsory licensing' is a specific policy term.

The patentee must maintain the patent by paying periodic maintenance fees.

Le titulaire du brevet doit maintenir le brevet en payant des frais de maintenance périodiques.

'Patentee' is the formal term for a patent holder.

The doctrine of equivalents allows for a finding of infringement even without literal copying.

La doctrine des équivalents permet de conclure à une contrefaçon même sans copie littérale.

'Doctrine of equivalents' is a high-level legal principle.

類義語

license copyright protection permit certificate grant

反対語

infringement public domain piracy

よく使う組み合わせ

Apply for a patent

Grant a patent

Patent infringement

Patent pending

Patent portfolio

Hold a patent

Patent expiration

Patent attorney

Patent office

Invalidate a patent

よく使うフレーズ

Letters patent

— An old term for an open document from a monarch granting a right or title.

The explorer was given letters patent to claim new lands.

Patent cliff

— A sharp decline in revenue that occurs when a major product's patent expires.

The pharmaceutical industry is facing a patent cliff this year.

Patent troll

— A company that buys patents only to sue others for money, not to make products.

The small startup was targeted by a notorious patent troll.

Patent thicket

— A complex web of overlapping intellectual property rights that is hard to navigate.

New software companies often struggle to get through the patent thicket.

Patent race

— A competition between companies to be the first to patent a new technology.

The two tech giants are in a patent race for quantum computing.

Patent family

— A set of related patents in different countries for the same invention.

The company filed a whole patent family to protect their product globally.

Patent war

— An ongoing series of lawsuits between companies over multiple patents.

The smartphone patent war lasted for over a decade.

Design patent

— A patent that protects only the visual appearance of an object.

Apple used a design patent to protect the look of the iPhone.

Utility patent

— The most common patent, protecting how an invention works or is used.

Most engineering inventions require a utility patent.

Patent agent

— A professional who is qualified to help people apply for patents but is not necessarily a lawyer.

The inventor hired a patent agent to draft the technical descriptions.

よく混同される語

patent vs Copyright

patent vs Trademark

Trademark is for logos/brands; patent is for functions.

patent vs Pattern

A pattern is a repeated design; a patent is a legal document. They sound similar.

慣用句と表現

"A patent lie"

— An obvious, clear, and unmistakable falsehood.

His claim that he had never met the suspect was a patent lie.

Informal/Journalistic

"Patent on (something)"

— To have a total control or unique mastery over a specific thing or behavior (metaphorical).

She seems to have a patent on making people feel welcome.

Informal

"Patent of nobility"

— A document granting someone a noble title (historical).

The family's patent of nobility dates back to the 17th century.

Formal/Historical

"Patent defect"

— A flaw in a property or product that is obvious upon a simple inspection.

The cracked foundation was a patent defect that the buyer should have noticed.

Legal

"Patent ambiguity"

— An uncertainty in a legal document that is obvious from the text itself.

The contract contained a patent ambiguity regarding the payment dates.

Legal

"Take out a patent"

— The act of officially registering and obtaining a patent.

He decided to take out a patent on his new gardening tool.

Neutral

"Patent pending"

— Used metaphorically to say something is in progress or not yet official.

Their relationship is still in the 'patent pending' phase.

Informal/Humorous

"Patent of error"

— An old legal term for correcting a mistake in a record.

The court issued a patent of error to fix the clerical mistake.

Archaic

"Patent medicine"

— Originally, a medicine protected by a patent; later, a term for over-the-counter medicines of doubtful effectiveness.

The 19th century was full of 'patent medicine' salesmen.

Historical

"Patent leather"

— Leather with a very glossy, shiny finish.

He wore black patent leather shoes to the gala.

Neutral

間違えやすい

patent vs Patent (Adjective)

Same spelling and pronunciation.

The adjective means 'obvious' or 'clear,' while the noun is the document.

It was a patent mistake (obvious). He held a patent (document).

patent vs Patient

Sounds similar.

A patient is a person in a hospital; a patent is an invention right.

The patient is sleeping. The patent is active.

patent vs Pendant

Similar sound.

A pendant is jewelry; a patent is a legal right.

She wore a gold pendant. He filed a patent.

patent vs Latent

Rhymes and looks similar.

Latent means 'hidden'; patent (noun) means 'open/protected'.

His talent was latent. His patent was granted.

patent vs Potent

Similar structure.

Potent means 'powerful' (usually for medicine); patent is the right.

The drug was potent. The drug had a patent.

文型パターン

I have a patent for [noun].

I have a patent for my new car.

They applied for a patent in [year].

They applied for a patent in 2022.

The patent was granted to [person].

The patent was granted to the scientist.

[Company] is suing [Company] for patent infringement.

Apple is suing Samsung for patent infringement.

The validity of the patent was challenged by [entity].

The validity of the patent was challenged by the rival firm.

The patent serves as a catalyst for [abstract noun].

The patent serves as a catalyst for technological advancement.

If you don't have a patent, [consequence].

If you don't have a patent, others will copy you.

The patent claims that [clause].

The patent claims that the device can fly.

語族

名詞

Patentee (the person who receives the patent)

Patentor (the person or office that grants the patent)

Patenting (the process of getting a patent)

Patentability (the quality of being able to be patented)

動詞

Patent (to obtain a patent for something)

Repatent (to patent something again)

形容詞

Patented (protected by a patent)

Patentable (capable of being patented)

Unpatented (not protected by a patent)

Patent (obvious/clear)

使い方

frequency

Common in news, business, and technology; rare in daily casual conversation.

よくある間違い

I patented my new song. → I copyrighted my new song.
Patents are for functional inventions; songs are creative works protected by copyright.
The company has patent on the engine. → The company has a patent on the engine.
'Patent' is a countable noun and needs an article like 'a' or 'the'.
He applied a patent last week. → He applied for a patent last week.
The verb 'apply' requires the preposition 'for' when referring to a patent.
My patent gives me the right to make the product. → My patent gives me the right to exclude others from making the product.
A patent is a 'negative right'; it doesn't guarantee you can make it (you might be blocking someone else), it only stops others.
The patent will be forever. → The patent will expire in 20 years.
Patents are temporary; they do not provide protection indefinitely.

ヒント

Check Before You Build

Before spending money on a new product, always search the patent office database. You might find that someone else already holds a patent for your idea, which could lead to a lawsuit if you try to sell it. This is called a 'freedom to operate' search.

Patents Attract Investors

If you are starting a company, having a patent (or even just a patent application) makes you much more attractive to investors. It proves that you have a unique advantage that competitors cannot easily copy, making your business a safer investment.

Use Precise Verbs

When writing about patents, avoid the word 'get.' Instead, use 'file for' when you submit the application, 'be granted' when the government approves it, and 'infringe on' when someone breaks the rules. This makes your writing sound professional and accurate.

Consider Trade Secrets

Sometimes it is better NOT to get a patent. Because patents require you to reveal your secret to the public, some companies choose 'trade secret' protection instead (like the recipe for Coca-Cola). This can last forever as long as you keep it a secret.

Learn from the Past

Studying old patents can be a great way to understand how technology has evolved. Most patent offices have free online archives where you can see the original drawings for the lightbulb, the telephone, and even the first computers. It is a goldmine of information.

The PCT is Your Friend

If you want to protect your invention in many countries, look into the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). It allows you to file one 'international' application that buys you time (usually 30 months) before you have to pay the high fees in each individual country.

Hire an Expert

Patent law is incredibly complex. A small mistake in the 'claims' section of your application can make your patent useless. It is almost always worth the money to hire a qualified patent attorney or agent to help you draft the document correctly.

Balance with Public Good

Remember that the patent system is a 'social contract.' You get protection, but you MUST share your knowledge. Be prepared to explain the technical details of your invention clearly; if you try to hide how it works, your patent might be rejected or invalidated.

Count Your Patents

Remember that 'patent' is a countable noun. You can have 'a patent,' 'two patents,' or 'several patents.' Do not treat it as an uncountable concept like 'information' or 'advice.' This is a common mistake for non-native speakers.

Don't Stop at One

The best companies don't just have one patent; they have a 'patent portfolio.' By patenting different parts of a system or new improvements over time, you can create a much stronger wall of protection around your business than with just a single document.

暗記しよう

記憶術

P.A.T.E.N.T.: Publicly Available Technical Explanation, Not Transferable (without permission).

視覚的連想

Imagine a giant golden padlock shaped like the letter 'P' sitting on top of a blueprint or a new machine.

Word Web

Invention Law Money Protection Document Inventor Court Expiry

チャレンジ

Try to name three things in your room right now that probably have a patent. (e.g., your smartphone, your laptop's hinge, a specific type of pen).

語源

Derived from the Old French 'patente' and the Latin 'patens' or 'patere', which means 'to lie open' or 'to be exposed'.

元の意味： It originally referred to 'letters patent' (literae patentes), which were open letters issued by a monarch or government to grant a right, monopoly, or title to someone.

Indo-European (Latin branch).

文化的な背景

Be careful when discussing patents on living organisms (like seeds or genes) or essential medicines, as these can be highly sensitive political and ethical topics.

The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is a legendary institution in American history, often associated with the 'Yankee Ingenuity' of inventors like Edison and Ford.

The 'Patent Wars' between Apple and Samsung (2010s) The invention of the telephone (Bell vs. Gray) The 'Shark Tank' catchphrase: 'Is it patented?'

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Business/Startups

Do you have a patent?
We need to protect our IP.
Our patent is our biggest asset.
Check for patent infringement.

Law

The patent is invalid.
We are filing a lawsuit.
The claims are too broad.
Search for prior art.

Engineering/R&D

Is this technology patented?
We need to file an application.
The patent expires next year.
This is a proprietary design.

Pharmaceuticals

The drug is coming off patent.
Wait for the generic version.
The patent cliff is approaching.
Extend the patent life.

History

Edison's most famous patent.
The first patent ever granted.
The patent changed the world.
A history of innovation.

会話のきっかけ

"If you could have a patent on any one idea, what would it be?"

"Do you think patents help or hurt new inventors?"

"Why do you think pharmaceutical patents last for 20 years?"

"Have you ever seen 'Patent Pending' on a product you bought?"

"Should software code be protected by patents or copyrights?"

日記のテーマ

Imagine you invented a machine that cleans the ocean. Describe your journey to get a patent for it.

Write about the pros and cons of the patent system in the modern world.

If you were a 'patent troll,' how would you justify your business to the public?

Describe a product you use every day and research if it has any interesting patents.

How would the world be different if patents only lasted for 5 years instead of 20?

よくある質問

10 問

In most countries, a standard utility patent lasts for 20 years from the date the application was filed. After this time, the invention enters the public domain, meaning anyone can use it. Design patents may have different durations, such as 15 years in the US. You must pay maintenance fees to keep the patent active during this time.

A patent protects a new invention, such as a machine, a chemical formula, or a manufacturing process. A trademark protects a brand's identity, such as a logo, a brand name, or a slogan. For example, the technology inside an iPhone is protected by patents, but the name 'iPhone' and the Apple logo are protected by trademarks.

No, you cannot patent a simple idea or a theory. You must have a concrete invention or a specific process that works. You need to be able to describe exactly how to make and use it so that someone else in the same field could build it based on your description. This is called 'enablement.'

'Patent pending' is a warning that an inventor has filed a patent application with the patent office but the patent hasn't been granted yet. It tells competitors that they might be sued in the future if they copy the product once the patent is officially issued. It provides some legal protection during the waiting period.

There is no such thing as a single 'world patent.' Patents are territorial, meaning you must apply in each country where you want protection. However, you can use the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) to start the process in many countries at once, which makes it easier to manage the international filing process.

Patent infringement occurs when a person or company makes, uses, or sells a patented invention without the permission of the patent holder. This is a legal violation that can result in the infringer having to pay large amounts of money in damages or being forced to stop selling their product by a court order.

The actual inventor or inventors must be named on the patent application. However, in many cases, the inventors have signed a contract with their employer (a company or university) stating that any inventions they make belong to the organization. In those cases, the company is the 'assignee' or owner of the patent.

This is a complex and changing area of law. In many countries, software can be patented if it performs a specific, technical function in a new and non-obvious way. However, simple mathematical algorithms or abstract business methods are usually not patentable. Many people prefer to use copyright to protect software code instead.

Patents encourage companies to invest in expensive research and development. Because they know they will have a period of exclusive sales if they succeed, they are willing to take risks. This leads to new medicines, cleaner energy, and better technology, which benefits society as a whole once the patents eventually expire.

When a patent expires, the invention enters the 'public domain.' This means that the legal monopoly ends, and anyone is free to make, use, or sell the invention without paying the original inventor. This is why drug prices usually drop significantly when a 'generic' version becomes available after the patent expires.

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