What is the difference between a patent and a patent application?

A patent and a patent application are both related to intellectual property law. The difference between them is that a patent is a form of legal protection that provides an inventor with exclusive rights to their intellectual property. A patent application is an application that a person files with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The patent application signals a person’s intent to pursue a patent. A patent is a legal form of protection that grants an inventor the exclusive right to make, use, and sell an invention. The rights are limited to the geographical areas where the patent has been filed. In the US, a patent is typically valid for up to 20 years. In addition, the inventor has the right to prevent others from making, using, or selling the invention without the inventor’s permission. By contrast, a patent application is an application to the USPTO to pursue a patent and receive the exclusive rights granted by a patent. A patent application contains information such as an explanation of the invention, drawings, and diagrams. The USPTO may then issue a patent if the invention meets the criteria and standard for a patent. In summary, a patent is a legal form of protection that grants the exclusive right to make, use, and sell an invention, while a patent application is an application to pursue a patent.

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