Final answer:
Brand equity best describes a brand's ability to capture consumer preference and loyalty, contributing to customer retention, attraction, and a competitive market advantage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Brand equity refers to a measure of the brand's ability to capture consumer preference and loyalty. It is not merely the financial value of a brand or the return on investment it brings, but rather the intangible benefits that a brand has due to consumers' perceptions and experiences with the brand. Brand equity can lead to premium pricing, a strong customer base, and a competitive advantage in the market. Good brand equity translates into customer retention and the attraction of new customers through positive word-of-mouth and brand recognition. Legal protection and similarity to other brands do not define brand equity; instead, they are related business concepts.