What Is…Consensual Nonconsent (CNC)?

Sexpective glossary
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Consensual nonconsent (CNC) is a relationship style in which a bottom gives up total control/power/authority to a Top.   CNC is most commonly seen in Master/slave or Owner/property relationships, although not all M/s or O/p relationships involve CNC.  CNC is also generally considered synonymous with Total Power Exchange and/or Total Authority Exchange.  (But if you feel there is a difference, feel free to share in the comments!)

This is sometimes referred to as “blanket consent.”  In other words, the bottom gives up control only one time, thereby giving blanket consent to all future actions and decisions.  In some dynamics, this includes giving up even the right to end the relationship.  Of course, there is no legally binding way to give up this right, but that does not mean the parties involved do not take it seriously.

CNC can also be used to describe a scene style, in which the bottom temporarily gives up all control.  Of course, there are some limitations to “all” in a scene.  Most of the time, the Top is not going to demand the bottom’s bank password!  Whereas in a CNC relationship dynamic, the bottom who has given blanket consent really does turn over control even of things like finances.

Finally, CNC is sometimes used as a synonym for rape play. 

In my own writings, when I refer to CNC, I am always referring to the relationship style, not the scene or play style.

Important note: There is no such thing as a universally-accepted definition of anything in the world of kink.  These definitions are mermaidmickey’s only.  Feel free to add your own thoughts in the comments!

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