The phrase "Totally Tubular" evokes a vibrant image of the 1980s, conjuring up visions of bright neon colors, big hair, and radical skateboarding. But who actually owns this iconic catchphrase? The answer, surprisingly, is complex and doesn't have a single, definitive owner. Let's delve into the fascinating history and explore the legal complexities surrounding this popular expression.
What Does "Totally Tubular" Even Mean?
Before we dive into ownership, it's worth clarifying the meaning. "Totally Tubular" is slang originating in the 1980s California surf and skate culture. It was used to express enthusiasm, approval, or excitement about something considered excellent or cool. The word "tubular" itself described something excellent or exceptionally good, particularly waves that were long, powerful, and rideable. The "totally" intensifies the sentiment.
Who First Used "Totally Tubular"?
Pinpointing the very first person to utter "totally tubular" is virtually impossible. Slang evolves organically, spreading through communities and gaining popularity through repeated use. It likely emerged through word-of-mouth within the Southern California youth culture before eventually gaining broader recognition. This organic growth makes establishing a single originator nearly impossible.
Can a Phrase Be Copyrighted?
This is the crux of the matter. While specific creative works like books, songs, and films can be copyrighted, short phrases and common expressions generally cannot. Copyright protects the expression of an idea, not the idea itself. "Totally Tubular," being a common phrase, lacks the originality and creativity required for copyright protection. It's considered part of the public domain.
Could "Totally Tubular" Be Trademarked?
Trademarks, unlike copyrights, protect brand names and logos used in commerce. Someone could theoretically trademark "Totally Tubular" if they could demonstrate exclusive use in a specific industry (for example, clothing or skateboarding equipment). However, this would be a challenge due to the phrase's widespread prior use and its generic nature. The likelihood of successfully registering a trademark for such a common phrase is low.
Why is Attributing "Totally Tubular" So Difficult?
The difficulty in attributing "Totally Tubular" stems from its organic evolution within a specific subculture. Unlike a formally written work with a clear author, slang expressions develop gradually through informal communication. There’s no single document or recording marking its precise origin. This makes tracing ownership extremely challenging, if not impossible.
Is There a Legal Owner of "Totally Tubular"?
No, there isn't a legal owner of the phrase "Totally Tubular." It resides in the public domain, free for anyone to use. Attempts to claim ownership would likely fail due to its lack of originality and widespread prior use.
What About Similar Phrases?
The same principles apply to other similar slang terms from the 1980s. Phrases like "radical," "bodacious," and "gnarly" share a similar history and lack individual ownership. These terms evolved organically within subcultures and spread through informal communication.
In conclusion, while "Totally Tubular" is a memorable and beloved phrase, its origin remains a mystery, and it doesn't have a single, legally recognized owner. Its widespread use and organic evolution firmly place it within the public domain.
