And competitors can never know if they infringe ahead of time.
Some competitors may know something about this secret innovation, through industrial espionage, and fear its impact on the market.
The injured Hinault was vulnerable, and his competitors knew it.
When she finished her first run, her competitors knew the race was most likely over.
If one company's pink trucks aren't selling, for instance, its competitors will know not to build many.
However, these competitors know the conditions, and they have nothing to do but prepare for them.
"Any competitor knows you've got to make those plays."
Deep inside, a competitor knew if he were down in ninetieth place.
In the oil trading game, it pays not to tip your hand, especially if competitors know you're under pressure.
Our competitors know this, they are already betting on innovation.