Derivative works include translations, adaptations, abridgments, and other transformations. Copyright in the derivative extends only to the new material and does not affect the underlying work's protection.
Unauthorized derivatives receive no protection.
Alternative Names:
Derivative|Adaptation
Why it Matters?
Unauthorized derivative works receive no copyright protection for the infringing portions, which means a party that created an adaptation without permission cannot assert rights against third parties copying it. The derivative right also constrains licensees who exceed the scope of their license, since creating an adaptation beyond the authorized use is infringement rather than breach, which carries different remedies including statutory damages.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Do unauthorized derivatives receive protection?
Why does exceeding a license matter?
