Differance

[scman35]

what is the difference between a dominate and a master ?

[Freya Mokusei]

One knows how to Google, the other expects people to Google for them.

You're probably better researching this yourself, it's not possible or probable to give an accurate description on a service designed to aid people who are having trouble using Second Life. The definitions for these terms are routed within BDSM subculture, and can vary depending on the method of indoctrination used.

[Madelaine McMasters]

I'll add to Freya's answer by noting that quite a few roleplayers in SL (and RL ;-) don't really know a lot about the roles they're playing. They're making it up as they go. For that reason, the definition of virtually any role play term can be fluid.

That said, I'll explain my understanding of the difference by analogy.

Dominant is to master as man is to husband... approximately.

I have, at times, fancied myself dominant. My particular analogy would be...

Dominant is to mistress as Maddy is to wayward child... approximately.