'THE' Ohio State University: School files trademark for word 'the' on apparel

Ohio State University is attempting to trademark the most common word in the English language, and it's already been used twice in this article: The. 

The school filed a trademark with the United State Patent and Trademark Office last Thursday for "the" when used with the university's name on items marked for sale, which could include T-shirts and hats. 

“Like other institutions, Ohio State works to vigorously protect the university’s brand and trademarks,” university spokesman Chris Davey told The Columbus Dispatch in a statement. 

“These assets hold significant value, which benefits our students and faculty and the broader community by supporting our core academic mission of teaching and research.”

NFL fans are aware it's commonplace for a former Buckeye playing a prime time game to introduce himself with their name followed by "The Ohio State University," which is the school's formal name. 

Previously, Ohio State trademarked the names of former coaches Urban Meyer and Woody Hayes. 

Per the Dispatch, Ohio State had 150 trademarks in 17 countries as of last fall.