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Manipulation

muh-NIP-yoo-LAY-shun /məˌnɪpjəˈleɪʃn/

nounC2GRETOEFLIELTS

formalnegative connotation

The action of manipulating something in a skillful manner; OR the action of influencing or controlling someone or something deviously or unfairly.

While 'manipulation' can refer to skillful handling, its common usage, especially in the context of influence, carries a strong negative connotation, implying dishonest or unethical control.

The story behind the word. The word 'manipulation' comes from the Latin 'manipulus,' meaning 'handful' or 'bundle,' which in turn comes from 'manus' (hand). It originally referred to the skillful handling of objects, like a surgeon manipulating instruments. By the 19th century, it gained its negative sense of 'managing or controlling by artful or unfair means,' implying a 'hand-picking' or 'hand-crafting' of outcomes in a deceptive way.

Word relationships

Exploitation: Using someone or something unfairly for one's own benefit.
Coercion: Persuading an unwilling person to do something by using force or threats.
Deception: The action of deceiving someone.

Honesty: The quality of being truthful and straightforward.
Transparency: Operating in such a way that it is easy for others to see what actions are performed.

Commonly confused with

Persuasion: Persuasion appeals to reason and free will; manipulation uses deceptive or unethical means to control.

Word family

manipulate (verb): To handle or control (a tool, mechanism, etc.), typically in a skillful manner; to control or influence (a person or situation) deviously.
manipulative (adjective): Exercising clever or unscrupulous influence over someone or something.

Collocations

data manipulation
market manipulation
psychological manipulation
emotional manipulation
subtle manipulation

Example sentences

"The documentary exposed the subtle manipulation of public opinion by political operatives through social media." An ethics debate.
"The precise manipulation of genetic material is at the forefront of modern biotechnology." A technical description.
"The prosecution argued that the defendant's manipulation of financial records constituted fraud." A legal case.

Memory hook

MAN-ip-u-LATION: Think of a 'MAN' using his 'hand' (MANus) to 'LATE' (late, as in subtly change) things for his own benefit. Skillful, often devious, handling.

When not to use

Avoid using 'manipulation' if you mean positive or ethical influence; use 'persuasion' or 'guidance' instead.

Fun facts

The neutral sense of 'manipulation' is still used in fields like surgery, robotics, and data processing.
The negative connotation is particularly strong in discussions of media, politics, and consumer behavior.

Related words

Influence, Subliminal, Persuade

Explore more words

manipulate, maneuver, spin, spin doctor, deceptive, falsification