Basic Details
Word: Manipulate
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To skillfully control or influence someone or something in a clever or often unfair way.
Synonyms: Control, manage, influence
Antonyms: Help, assist, ignore
Idioms and Phrases
- Manipulate the situation: To skillfully control circumstances to achieve a desired outcome. Example: "She knew how to manipulate the situation to get her team to win the game."
- Don't let them manipulate you: A warning not to allow others to control or influence you unfairly. Example: "He can be persuasive, so be careful not to let him manipulate you into making a rush decision."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The magician managed to manipulate the cards so quickly that the audience was amazed.
Example 2: Some people try to manipulate emotions to get what they want from others.
Example 3: The coach was skilled in how to manipulate the team's strategies during the game to ensure their victory.
Fun Fact
The word "manipulate" comes from the Latin "manipulare," which means "to handle" or "to work by hand." It was originally used in a physical sense before it evolved to include psychological influence.
Famous Quote
"The most effective way to manipulate is to make the other party believe their interests are securely matched with yours." Robert Greene
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "manipulate" mean?
a) To play with toys
b) To skilfully control or influence
c) To dance gracefully
d) To make a mistake
Answer: b) To skilfully control or influence
2. Which of these is a synonym of "manipulate"?
a) Create
b) Force
c) Control
d) Ignore
Answer: c) Control
3. Which is an antonym of "manipulate"?
a) Influence
b) Help
c) Manage
d) Handle
Answer: b) Help
4. Which sentence uses "manipulate" correctly?
a) She will manipulate the puzzle pieces together.
b) The artist can manipulate colours to create stunning effects.
c) He tried to manipulate his friend by being honest.
d) I manipulate the dog on the leash.
Answer: b) The artist can manipulate colours to create stunning effects.
5. Which idiom is related to "manipulate"?
a) Don't let them manipulate you
b) Straight from the horse's mouth
c) A penny for your thoughts
d) Burning the midnight oil
Answer: a) Don't let them manipulate you
