manipulate
word
/məˈnɪpjəˌɫeɪt/
muh-NI-pyuh-layt
/mənˈɪpjʊlˌeɪt/
muh-NI-pyuu-layt
Definition
To control or influence someone or something in a clever or sometimes dishonest way, or to handle or move something with your hands.
Usage & Nuances
Often negative when about people ('manipulate someone's feelings'), but neutral/positive when about objects/devices ('manipulate the controls'). Commonly used in psychology, business, or technical settings.
Spanish: manipularPortuguese (BR): manipularPortuguese (PT): manipularChinese (Simplified): 操控 - 操作Chinese (Traditional): 操控 - 操作Hindi: हेरफेर करनाArabic: يتلاعبBengali: প্রভাবিত করা - নিয়ন্ত্রণ করা - চালনা করাRussian: манипулировать - управлятьJapanese: 操作する - 巧みに扱うVietnamese: thao túng - điều khiểnKorean: 조종하다 - 다루다Turkish: manipüle etmek - kontrol etmekUrdu: جذب کرنا - قابو کرناIndonesian: memanipulasi - mengendalikan
Example Sentences
She knows how to manipulate the machine safely.
basic
He tried to manipulate the situation to get a promotion.
natural
Don't let anyone manipulate your feelings.
natural
It takes skill to manipulate such small parts.
natural
Sometimes people try to manipulate others for their own benefit.
basic
You need to manipulate the wires carefully.
basic