teach away
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
In patent law, to describe the solution to a problem in a way that excludes a particular alternative to solving that problem addressed by a later invention.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
A statement that a particular combination is not a preferred embodiment does not teach away absent clear discouragement of that combination.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “teach away” mean?
In patent law, to describe the solution to a problem in a way that excludes a particular alternative to solving that problem addressed by a later invention.
Is “teach away” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.