Reference
BDSM Terms Compared
Clear, side-by-side answers to the most commonly-confused pairs of BDSM terms.
Dominant vs Top
A Dominant holds authority in a dynamic; a Top performs the physical action in a scene. You can top (do the tying or spanking) without being dominant, and be dominant without doing any physical topping.
Submissive vs Slave
A Submissive yields control within negotiated limits, keeping their voice fully active. A Slave dynamic usually implies deeper, ongoing authority transfer. Both are consensual; the difference is depth and structure.
Top vs Bottom
The Top does the action, the Bottom receives it. These describe roles in an act, not authority — so a 'dominant bottom' or 'submissive top' is entirely possible.
Dominant vs Sadist
Dominance is about control and authority; sadism is about giving sensation or pain. A Dominant may enjoy no pain play at all, and a Sadist can give sensation while a partner leads.
Little vs Pet
A Little embodies a younger, playful human headspace; a Pet takes on animal-like mannerisms (puppy, kitten, pony). Both enjoy being cared for, but the expression differs.
Rigger vs Rope Bunny
The Rigger ties; the Rope Bunny is tied. Riggers focus on the artistry and technique of bondage, while Rope Bunnies focus on the sensation and surrender of being bound.
Brat vs Brat Tamer
A Brat is a submissive who resists playfully to invite a stronger response; a Brat Tamer is the dominant who enjoys earning their submission through the game. They're natural counterparts.
Still unsure where you fit? The test maps you across all of these at once.