Glossary
Rough
Rough is a casual term for sexual activity that is deliberately intense or physically forceful, practiced with consent and clear communication.
Rough describes sexual activity chosen to be intense, edgy, or physically forceful. Rough sex can include hair-pulling, biting, spanking, pinning, or vigorous movement. Within LGBTQ+ and broader kink communities, it is one of many ways people express desire, and for many partners it is a healthy and satisfying part of their sex life. The key difference between rough play and abuse is consent: rough sex depends on agreed-upon boundaries, ongoing communication, and often a safe word so anyone can pause or stop at any time. Consensual force is not the same as non-consensual force, and that line is what makes the play safe.