What does the TM symbol indicate?

The TM symbol indicates an unregistered trademark. It is used by businesses to signify that they are claiming rights to a mark they are using in commerce, even if they have not officially registered it with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Unlike a registered trademark, which is denoted by the ® symbol, the TM symbol serves as a notice to others of the claimant's intention to assert trademark rights. This symbol can be used regardless of the mark’s eligibility for registration, as it does not require a formal legal process to be claimed.

In contrast, a registered trademark would be indicated by the ® symbol and signifies that the trademark is officially registered with the USPTO, providing certain legal advantages and protections. The other options suggest statuses that pertain to the legal process surrounding trademarks, such as being contested or under review, which are not represented by the TM symbol.