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What is Consensual Non-Consent?
Also known as: CNC, ravishment play
In depth
CNC (sometimes called ravishment play) is prearranged roleplay of overpowering, resistance or forced scenarios. Its defining, non-negotiable feature: everything is consented to beforehand. Partners discuss the fantasy in detail, set hard limits, and agree a safe word or signal that stops the scene at once. The non-consent is theatre, start to finish.
How it works
Partners negotiate the scenario, the triggers, the hard limits, and a fail-safe (a safe word, or a gesture or object if 'no' belongs in the script). Then they play out the agreed scene, with the top staying tuned to the bottom's real state the whole way through.
That is the definition. Doing it is a longer subject, and it has its own page: the full guide to consensual non-consent covers practice, variations and where beginners get caught out.
Safety
CNC asks for the most rigorous negotiation of any kink: explicit limits, a safe word that overrides the roleplay, and deep trust. Because 'no' is scripted, use an out-of-character safe word or gesture, debrief with care, and give strong aftercare for what can be an intense emotional comedown.
Consensual Non-Consent FAQ
Isn't consensual non-consent a contradiction?
The name captures the play: the roleplay depicts non-consent, but the activity itself is fully consented to in advance, with limits and a safe word. It is carefully negotiated fantasy, not real coercion.
How do you have a safe word if no is part of the scene?
You agree an out-of-character safe word or signal with nothing to do with the roleplay, a specific unrelated word, or dropping a held object, so there is always a clear, unmistakable way to stop.