CNC: what it means
An advanced form of roleplay where adults agree, in detail and well in advance, to act out a scene in which one partner plays at resisting. The real consent is given beforehand during careful negotiation: limits are set, a safeword or signal stays active the whole time, and anyone can stop at any moment. It needs deep trust and experience, is not for first meetings, and is never a cover for anything that was not agreed.
Also called: consensual non-consent.
In practice
CNC is not a beginner activity and is never for first meetings. It relies on deep, established trust, detailed negotiation and a safeword or signal that stays active the whole time. The real consent is given in advance and can be withdrawn at any moment.
Consent and safety
Consent tools only work when everyone agrees on them ahead of time, sober and without pressure. Anyone can pause or stop at any moment, and a “yes” last week is not a “yes” today. If something feels off, stopping is always the right call. For meeting someone new, see our safety tips.
Related terms
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General education for adults 18+, not medical or legal advice. Definitions vary between communities; when in doubt, ask your partner what a word means to them.