Glossary & Terminology

The sex work industry has developed its own extensive vocabulary — a mix of euphemisms, abbreviations, and regional slang. Knowing these terms helps you navigate review sites, understand advertising, and communicate effectively. This glossary is organized alphabetically, with special sections for regional terminology at the end.

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A

Advance Notice Discount

A reduced rate offered by some providers when clients book well in advance (typically 24-72+ hours ahead). This benefits the provider by guaranteeing income and allowing schedule planning. Not universally offered — check the provider's website or ask politely during booking.

AMP — Asian Massage Parlor

A massage establishment, typically staffed by East or Southeast Asian women, that offers sexual services in addition to (or instead of) legitimate massage. Quality and legitimacy vary enormously — from well-run, clean businesses to exploitative operations. Exercise caution and look for signs of willing, independent workers. Avoid any establishment where workers appear coerced or controlled.

Athletic

A body type descriptor used in provider ads indicating a toned, fit physique. Like all body type descriptors in advertising, interpretation is subjective. Photos are a better guide than labels.

ATF — All-Time Favorite

Forum shorthand for a client's favorite provider of all time. Used in discussions like "she's my ATF" to indicate a particularly memorable or preferred companion.

Agency

A business that manages bookings for multiple providers. The agency handles advertising, screening, scheduling, and sometimes transportation. Agencies take a percentage of the session fee. Quality varies — some are well-run and protect their workers; others are exploitative. Research the agency's reputation before booking.

B

Baseline Test

A pre-travel STI test taken before a trip where you anticipate sexual activity. This establishes your health status before departure, making it easier to identify any new infections acquired during travel when you test again after returning. Recommended practice for anyone traveling specifically for sexual encounters.

BB — Bareback

BBBJ — Bare Back Blow Job

BBW — Big Beautiful Woman

A body type descriptor used in provider ads indicating a larger, full-figured physique. BBW is a widely used and generally positive term in the industry. Providers who use this label embrace their body type as part of their appeal.

BBFS — Bare Back Full Service

BBSM — Body-to-Body Sensual Massage

A massage style where the provider uses their entire body to massage the client, typically involving full body contact and sliding movements. Common in Southeast Asian massage parlors (the "soapy" in Thailand is a variant). Often a prelude to further services.

Bar Fine

A fee paid to a bar or club to "release" a worker from their shift so they can leave with you. Common in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Philippines). The bar fine goes to the establishment; the provider's fee is separate and negotiated directly. Bar fines typically range from 500-1000 Thai Baht in Thailand or 1500-3000 Philippine Pesos in the Philippines.

Blacklist

A shared list of problematic clients maintained by providers or provider communities. Clients end up on blacklists for NCNS (no-shows), violence, boundary violations, payment disputes, or other bad behavior. Being blacklisted can make it impossible to book with multiple providers in a city or region. Opposite of a whitelist.

C

CBJ — Covered Blow Job

Oral sex performed with a condom. The safest form of oral sex in a commercial context. Some clients find the sensation reduced; some providers use ultra-thin condoms or flavored condoms to improve the experience.

CFS — Covered Full Service

Vaginal intercourse with a condom. This should be your default and non-negotiable standard for penetrative sex. Any reputable provider will insist on this.

Clock-Watching

A negative term describing a provider who watches the time too closely during a session, creating a rushed or transactional feeling. Often cited in negative reviews. The opposite of a relaxed, unhurried experience. Note: providers have every right to manage their time — this term usually applies to egregious cases where the session feels cut short or the provider is visibly counting minutes.

CIM — Come In Mouth

Ejaculating in the provider's mouth during oral sex. This is considered an extra service by many providers and may come at additional cost. It's typically only offered during BBBJ (uncovered oral). Not all providers offer this — always ask rather than assume.

COB — Come On Body

Ejaculating on the provider's body (chest, stomach, etc.). Generally a standard part of most sessions, but always confirm boundaries. Never ejaculate on a provider's face without explicit permission (see COF).

COF — Come On Face

Ejaculating on the provider's face. This is almost always an extra or premium service. Many providers do not offer this at all. Never attempt without explicit prior agreement.

Curvy

A body type descriptor used in provider ads indicating a voluptuous figure with pronounced hips, bust, and/or waist-to-hip ratio. More specific than BBW and generally implies an hourglass-type shape. As with all body descriptors, photos are a better guide than labels.

D

DATO — Dining At The Other

Performing analingus (oral-anal contact) on the provider. A niche service that carries some STI and bacterial transmission risk. Not commonly offered unless specifically advertised.

DATY — Dining At The Y

Performing cunnilingus (oral sex) on a female provider. The "Y" refers to the shape of spread legs. Availability varies by provider — some include it as standard, others don't offer it, and some offer it only to regulars. Carries low but non-zero STI risk. Using a dental dam reduces risk further.

DFK — Deep French Kissing

Open-mouth kissing with tongue. This is one of the most significant differentiators between service levels. Many providers consider DFK an intimate act and reserve it for GFE sessions or regulars. Some never offer it at all. DFK is typically advertised as part of a GFE package. The STI risk from kissing alone is very low (herpes being the primary concern).

Deposit

A non-refundable payment made in advance to confirm a booking. Typically 10-25% of the session fee. Protects the provider against no-shows. Legitimate deposits are usually processed through CashApp, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. Be cautious of providers who demand the full fee upfront before any meeting.

Donation

An alternative term for the session fee, commonly used in Nordic model countries (Canada, France, Sweden) and parts of the United States where explicit discussion of payment for sexual services is legally risky. "Donation" frames the payment as a gift rather than a transaction. Despite the euphemism, the payment is expected and non-optional.

Duo Session

A session involving two providers and one client. Typically booked through providers who regularly work together as a pair. Pricing is usually 1.5x to 2x the single-provider rate. Book through one provider and let them coordinate with their partner. Chemistry between the duo providers matters — ask if they work together regularly.

E

Enhanced

A body type descriptor used in provider ads indicating cosmetic surgery enhancements — typically breast augmentation, lip fillers, or other procedures. Some clients specifically seek enhanced providers; others prefer natural. The term is used neutrally in advertising to set expectations.

F

FBSM — Full Body Sensual Massage

A massage-focused service with sensual or sexual elements, typically including a full-body massage followed by a "happy ending" (manual release) but generally not full intercourse. FBSM providers often work from massage tables rather than beds and emphasize the therapeutic/sensual aspect. Pricing is usually lower than full-service escorts. Popular in North America where it occupies a legal gray area.

Fenster

German term meaning "window" — refers to window prostitution (Fensterprostitution), the practice of providers sitting in glass-fronted rooms at street level to attract clients. Most famously associated with Amsterdam's De Wallen (where the Dutch term "raam" is used), but also found in German and Belgian red-light districts.

Findom / Financial Domination

A fetish dynamic where the submissive party derives pleasure from giving money to the dominant party. The act of paying is itself the service — no physical or sexual contact is required or necessarily involved. Findom exists primarily online through cash transfers, gift purchases, and "tributes." Not to be confused with standard payment for services.

FKK — Freikörperkultur

German term meaning "free body culture." In the sex industry context, FKK refers to large spa-style clubs primarily found in Germany and Austria. Clients pay an entry fee (typically EUR 50-100) that includes food, drinks, sauna/pool access, and social areas. Services with individual providers are negotiated and paid separately. FKK clubs are legal, regulated, and generally considered among the safest venues in the industry. Clients typically wear only a towel or robe inside the club.

FS — Full Service

Sexual intercourse (vaginal penetration) as part of the session. This is the most commonly understood meaning of "escort services." Should always be covered (CFS) unless both parties have verified STI status and explicitly agreed otherwise (which this guide does not recommend with commercial partners).

G

GFE — Girlfriend Experience

A session designed to simulate a romantic encounter rather than a purely transactional one. GFE typically includes DFK (deep kissing), extended foreplay, conversation, cuddling, and a generally more intimate, unhurried atmosphere. GFE providers often charge a premium for this style of service. The exact definition varies by provider — always check what's included. A GFE session generally means the provider will be more affectionate, make more eye contact, and create a sense of genuine connection.

Greek

Anal sex. The term comes from historical associations with ancient Greece. This is a premium extra service that many providers do not offer. When offered, it should always be protected (with a condom) and involve proper preparation and lubrication. Never attempt without explicit discussion and agreement beforehand. Providers who offer Greek typically charge a significant surcharge.

H

HE — Happy Ending

A handjob or other sexual release at the end of a massage session. This is the most basic level of sexual service in the industry, commonly associated with massage parlors.

HJ — Hand Job

Manual stimulation of the penis to orgasm. One of the most basic services offered. Can be part of a full session or offered as a standalone service (common in massage parlor settings).

Hobbyist

A client who regularly engages sex workers and participates in online forum communities. The term implies someone who treats it as a serious pastime — researching, reviewing, and discussing experiences online. Sometimes used self-deprecatingly, sometimes criticized for reducing human interactions to a "hobby."

Hobbyist Code of Conduct

The unwritten community rules that experienced clients follow and expect of each other. These typically include: never out a provider's real identity, don't haggle disrespectfully, honor screening processes, don't NCNS, tip when appropriate, write honest but discreet reviews, and never use review threats as leverage. Not formally codified anywhere but reinforced through forum culture and community pressure.

Hora

Spanish term meaning "hour" — used in Latin American markets to refer to the hourly rate for a session. "Media hora" means half hour. When negotiating in Spanish-speaking countries, pricing is typically discussed in terms of "por hora" (per hour).

I

Incall

A session at the provider's location. The client travels to the provider's apartment, studio, or other workspace. Incalls are typically less expensive than outcalls because the provider doesn't need to travel. You'll usually receive the address shortly before the appointment (30-60 minutes prior) for the provider's security.

K

Karaoke Hostess / KTV Hostess

A hostess working in a karaoke venue (KTV) in Asian markets — common in China, Vietnam, South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines. KTV hostesses provide companionship, pour drinks, sing, and flirt. Sexual services may or may not be available and are negotiated separately (not through the venue). KTV culture has its own etiquette and pricing structure that varies significantly by country.

L

Lady Drink

A drink bought for a bar worker in a hostess bar or go-go bar, typically in Southeast Asia. The drink is overpriced (the worker gets a commission), and the purchase functions as a social mechanism — it buys time and attention from the worker. Lady drinks are part of the bar ecosystem and should not be confused with the bar fine or the provider's personal fee.

Laufhaus

A German-language term for a multi-story building where sex workers rent individual rooms and operate independently. Clients walk through the building, and providers stand at their doorways to attract business. Common in Germany and Austria. Similar concept to a "Eros Center." No entry fee — you negotiate directly with the provider.

LFK — Light French Kissing

Closed-mouth or light lip kissing, sometimes with minimal tongue. A step below DFK. Some providers offer LFK but not DFK. Less intimate than full French kissing.

Long-Time

An extended booking, usually overnight. Common terminology in Southeast Asia, where "short-time" (1-2 hours) and "long-time" (overnight until morning) are the standard booking formats. Long-time rates are typically 1.5-2x the short-time rate.

Lurker

A forum member who reads discussions and reviews but rarely or never posts their own content. Lurkers make up the majority of users on most sex work forums. Not inherently negative — many experienced clients prefer to observe and learn rather than publicly share. Some forums restrict access to reviews unless members contribute content, specifically to discourage lurking.

M

Mature

A provider typically aged 35 and above. "Mature" is used as a positive marketing term by providers who appeal to clients seeking experience, confidence, and a less performative dynamic. Some clients specifically prefer mature providers for their conversational ability and comfort with the profession. Not a euphemism for "old" — many mature providers are at the top of their field.

Monger

Short for "whoremonger" — a person who regularly pays for sex. Used casually in online communities as a self-identifier. The term has mixed connotations — some use it matter-of-factly, others find it crude. You'll see it frequently on forums and review sites.

Motel

In Latin America, "motel" specifically refers to a short-stay venue rented by the hour for sexual encounters — distinct from the North American meaning of a roadside hotel. Latin American motels (also called "telo" in Argentina) offer themed rooms, privacy, and discretion. They are used by couples, affairs, and sex workers alike. Common throughout Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, and other Latin American countries. Not associated with the stigma they might carry in other cultures.

Mpox / Monkeypox

A viral infection transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Symptoms include rash (often on genitals, anus, hands, or face), fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The Jynneos vaccine (2 doses) provides protection. While not exclusively sexually transmitted, the majority of recent cases have been linked to sexual contact, particularly among MSM (men who have sex with men). See our Health & Safety chapter for prevention details.

MSOG — Multiple Shots On Goal

The client is allowed to orgasm more than once during the session. Not all providers offer this — some sessions are single-orgasm only (especially shorter sessions). MSOG is more commonly included in longer bookings (1 hour+) or GFE-style sessions. If it matters to you, confirm before booking.

N

Natural

A body type descriptor used in provider ads indicating no cosmetic surgery or enhancements. The opposite of "enhanced." Some clients specifically seek natural providers. The term refers to surgical procedures — makeup, hair styling, and similar non-surgical modifications are not relevant to this distinction.

NCNS — No Call, No Show

When a client (or sometimes a provider) fails to show up for a confirmed appointment without any communication. This is considered extremely disrespectful and damages trust throughout the community. Providers track NCNS clients and share information — you may find yourself blacklisted across multiple providers. If you need to cancel, always give as much notice as possible.

O

Outcall

A session at the client's location, typically a hotel room. The provider travels to you. Outcalls are generally more expensive (the provider has travel time and costs) and usually require more thorough screening (the provider is coming to an unfamiliar location). Most providers add $50-$200+ to their standard rate for outcall, depending on distance.

OWO — Oral Without

Oral sex without a condom (same as BBBJ). See the BBBJ entry for risk information.

P

P411

A client verification and screening service (Preferred411.com) widely used in North America. Clients create a verified profile that providers can check, streamlining the screening process. Having a P411 account signals that you've been vetted and are a known, safe client. Some providers require P411 or equivalent verification before accepting bookings.

PEP — Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

An emergency HIV prevention medication taken after potential exposure. Must be started within 72 hours of exposure (sooner is better) — within 4 hours is ideal. Available at emergency rooms and sexual health clinics. Involves a 28-day course of antiretroviral medication. PEP is for emergencies — if a condom breaks or you have unexpected unprotected exposure, seek PEP immediately.

Petite

A body type descriptor used in provider ads indicating a small frame, typically under 5'3" (160 cm) and slender build. One of the most common body type descriptors in advertising. See also: Spinner.

PrEP — Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

A daily medication (brand name Truvada or Descovy) that prevents HIV infection. When taken consistently, PrEP is over 99% effective at preventing HIV from sex. Recommended for anyone who regularly engages in sexual activity with partners of unknown HIV status. Available by prescription. Does not protect against other STIs. See our Health & Safety chapter for full details.

Prepago

Colombian and Latin American Spanish term literally meaning "prepaid" — the common term for an escort in Colombia, Ecuador, and other parts of Latin America. Used matter-of-factly in the local context without the stigma that English equivalents might carry. Prepago ads are found on local classified sites and social media.

Privehuis

A Dutch term for a private brothel or sex club. Typically a residential-style house converted to a small brothel with multiple providers. Common in the Netherlands and Belgium. Clients visit, choose from available providers, and negotiate terms. Usually no entry fee — you pay only for the session.

Prostate Massage

Internal stimulation of the prostate gland through the anus. Offered as a specialized service by some providers, particularly those specializing in sensual massage or BDSM. Can produce intense orgasms. Requires trust, communication, and proper hygiene. Not widely offered — look for providers who specifically advertise it.

PSE — Porn Star Experience

A session styled after pornographic encounters — more aggressive, performative, and physically intense than a GFE. PSE typically involves enthusiastic dirty talk, more adventurous positions, louder vocalizations, and a generally more "performative" atmosphere. May include extras like CIM, COF, or light bondage. Not all providers offer PSE. The exact definition varies — always discuss expectations beforehand.

R

Review Board

An online forum where clients post reviews of their experiences with providers. Review boards serve as community resources for finding and vetting providers. Major examples have included USASG, TER (The Erotic Review), and various regional forums. Controversial — providers have mixed feelings about reviews, as they can be weaponized or include unwanted personal details. See our Writing Reviews guide for etiquette.

Regular

A repeat client who sees the same provider multiple times. Being a regular has significant advantages: the provider already knows your preferences, trust has been established, screening is streamlined, and some providers offer perks or discounted rates to regulars. Building a regular relationship is generally the best way to have consistently great experiences.

RLD — Red Light District

A designated area of a city where sex work is concentrated, often with some level of official tolerance or regulation. Famous examples include De Wallen in Amsterdam, Reeperbahn in Hamburg, Patpong/Nana/Soi Cowboy in Bangkok, and Geylang in Singapore. RLDs can range from well-regulated tourist areas to dangerous, exploitative zones. Research specific districts before visiting.

S

Screening

The verification process a provider uses to confirm a client's identity and assess safety before agreeing to a session. Methods include ID verification, employment verification, references from other providers, social media profiles, and deposits. Screening protects the provider from law enforcement, violent clients, and time-wasters. A provider who screens thoroughly is generally a safer choice. See our Booking & Communication chapter.

Session Flow

The natural progression of a session from arrival to departure. A typical flow: arrive, greet, handle payment, freshen up/shower, warm-up conversation, physical intimacy, cooldown, cleanup, dress, and depart. Experienced providers guide this flow naturally. Understanding the expected flow helps reduce awkwardness, especially for first-timers.

Short-Time

A brief session, typically 1-2 hours. Standard terminology in Southeast Asia where "short-time" and "long-time" (overnight) are the two default booking formats. In other markets, sessions are typically booked by the hour or half-hour.

Social Companionship

A non-sexual escort booking for events, dinners, travel, or simply conversation and company. Priced by time like any other session. Social companionship is a legitimate service sought by people who want company without sexual expectations. Some providers specialize in this; others offer it alongside their regular services. Be clear in your booking about what you want.

Soapland

A Japanese establishment where services are provided in a bathing/showering context. The client is bathed, massaged, and serviced by the provider using a slippery mat and extensive body contact (known as "mat play"). Soaplands are a uniquely Japanese institution with a long cultural history. They exist in a legal grey area in Japan.

Spinner

Slang for a very small and petite provider — typically short, slim, and lightweight. The term originates from crude forum language but has become common shorthand in the industry. Some providers use it in their own advertising. See also: Petite.

STI Panel

A comprehensive multi-STI test that screens for multiple sexually transmitted infections at once. A standard panel typically includes HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and hepatitis B/C. Extended panels may add herpes (HSV-1/2), HPV, and trichomoniasis. Regular STI panels (every 3 months for active individuals) are essential. See our Health & Safety chapter for testing recommendations.

T

Tolerance Zone

A legally designated area where sex work is permitted or tolerated by local authorities, even in jurisdictions where it may be technically restricted elsewhere. Common in Latin America ("zona de tolerancia" in Mexico and Colombia), parts of Europe, and historically in various Asian cities. Working within a tolerance zone generally provides more safety and legal protection than operating outside one.

Terma

A Brazilian-style bathhouse or spa that operates as a de facto brothel. Clients pay an entry fee that includes drinks and access to sauna/pool facilities. Providers circulate the venue and clients negotiate terms directly. Common in major Brazilian cities, especially Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

TOFTT — Take One For The Team

Forum slang meaning to be the first person to visit an unreviewed provider and report back to the community. The phrase implies risk — the person is "taking one for the team" by seeing a provider with no track record so others can benefit from their review.

U

U=U — Undetectable Equals Untransmittable

A medical consensus that people living with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load through consistent antiretroviral therapy (ART) cannot transmit the virus sexually. This is scientifically established through multiple large-scale studies. U=U has transformed HIV from a terminal diagnosis to a manageable chronic condition and has significant implications for reducing stigma around HIV-positive individuals.

Unicorn

A provider who is considered exceptionally rare or extraordinary — someone who combines beauty, personality, skill, and value in a way that's hard to find. Used informally on forums to describe standout providers.

Upsell

When a provider or establishment attempts to charge additional fees beyond the agreed-upon rate during or after the session. Common in less reputable venues. A legitimate provider discusses all pricing upfront. Aggressive upselling is a red flag.

V

Verified

A platform badge or status confirming that a provider's identity has been checked by the advertising platform. Verification methods vary — some platforms confirm photos match the real person (photo verification), others confirm government ID, and some verify phone numbers only. Verification reduces (but doesn't eliminate) the risk of fake profiles and bait-and-switch situations. See our Photo Verification guide for details.

VIP Room

A private area in clubs, go-go bars, or similar venues where more intimate services are available away from the main floor. VIP rooms typically come with premium pricing — both for room access and for any services negotiated. Common in strip clubs, gentleman's clubs, and go-go bars in Southeast Asia. What's actually available in the VIP room varies enormously by venue and jurisdiction.

W

Warmup

The initial phase of a session focused on building comfort and connection before moving to more intimate activities. May include conversation, drinks, massage, or light physical contact. Experienced providers manage the warmup naturally. Rushing past the warmup often results in a less enjoyable experience for both parties. Good warmup is a hallmark of quality GFE sessions.

Whitelist

An approved client list shared between providers — the opposite of a blacklist. Being on a whitelist means a provider has vouched for you as safe, respectful, and reliable. This can streamline screening with other providers in the same network. Built through consistent good behavior, respectful interactions, and being a reliable regular.

Window Period

The time between exposure to an STI and when the infection becomes detectable on a test. Testing too early during the window period may produce a false negative. Key window periods: HIV (2-4 weeks for 4th gen tests, up to 3 months for older tests), syphilis (3-6 weeks), chlamydia/gonorrhea (1-2 weeks), hepatitis B (3-6 weeks). Always test at the appropriate interval after potential exposure — a negative test taken too early means nothing.

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Regional & International Terminology

Thai Terms

• Farang — Foreign (non-Thai) person, typically referring to Western clients
• Soi — Side street or alley (e.g., Soi Cowboy, a famous Bangkok entertainment district)
• Go-go bar — A bar where dancers perform on stage and are available to leave with clients after paying a bar fine
• Beer bar — A more casual, open-air bar with hostesses. Less flashy than go-go bars, usually cheaper
• Mamasan — The female manager of a bar or establishment who oversees the workers
• Boom boom — Colloquial term for sex, used casually in bar environments
• Soapy — A soapy massage parlor offering body-to-body massage and full service
• TF — Thai Friendly — Both a dating site and general term for hotels that allow Thai guests without extra charge

German Terms

• FKK — Freikörperkultur (see main entry above)
• Laufhaus — Walk-through brothel (see main entry above)
• Puff — Colloquial German term for a brothel
• GV — Geschlechtsverkehr — Sexual intercourse (full service)
• OV — Oralverkehr — Oral sex
• AV — Analverkehr — Anal sex
• Franz — Französisch — French (oral sex)
• Griech — Griechisch — Greek (anal sex)
• Küssen — Kissing
• Schmusen — Cuddling/petting

Japanese Terms

• Soapland — Bathing/service establishment (see main entry above)
• Delivery Health (Deriheru) — Outcall escort service in Japan. Despite the name, typically offers non-penetrative services due to legal restrictions
• Pinsaro (Pink Salon) — A seated oral sex establishment. Clients sit in theater-style seats in a dark room
• Onakura — A "masturbation club" where the provider assists the client manually. No intercourse
• Fuzoku — General term for the Japanese sex industry
• Honban — Actual penetrative sex (technically illegal in many Japanese venue contexts but often available through negotiation)
• NN — Nama, Namanaka — Unprotected sex/internal ejaculation (same warnings as BB)

Spanish Terms

• Chica — Girl/woman, used casually to refer to providers in Latin American contexts
• Casa de citas — Literally "appointment house," a discreet brothel
• Zona de tolerancia — A designated tolerance zone for sex work, common in Mexico and other Latin American countries
• Prepago — Literally "prepaid," the common term for an escort in Colombia and other parts of Latin America
• Trago — A drink (equivalent to "lady drink" in Asian contexts)
• Finca — A farm or estate, but in some contexts refers to a rural venue or party house where services are available
• Prosti — Colloquial abbreviation for "prostituta"

Dutch Terms

• Privehuis — Private house/brothel (see main entry above)
• Raam — Window (as in window prostitution)
• Club — A sex club or brothel, often with a lounge/bar area
• Tippelzone — A designated street prostitution zone (most have been closed in the Netherlands)

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A Note on Respectful vs. Derogatory Language

Language matters. The terminology in this glossary is presented descriptively — these are the terms you'll encounter on forums, review sites, and in industry communication. However, not all of these terms are appropriate to use in conversation with providers or in public discourse.

Respectful terms: Provider, companion, sex worker, escort, professional. These acknowledge the person's agency and humanity. Use these when speaking with or about sex workers.

Functional but clinical: Most of the abbreviations in this glossary (GFE, CFS, BBBJ, etc.) are industry shorthand used for efficient communication on forums and in reviews. They're generally acceptable in context but can feel dehumanizing if overused or used in direct conversation with a provider.

Terms to avoid: Whore, hooker, ho, trick, john — these terms carry heavy stigma and are considered derogatory by most sex workers. While you'll encounter them in casual conversation and media, using them signals disrespect. "Monger" is accepted within the community as self-referential but can be seen as crude by outsiders.

The golden rule: speak about and to sex workers the way you'd want someone to speak about and to you. They are professionals providing a service. Treat them accordingly — in person, online, and in private conversation.