Basic Details
Word: Manipulation
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The act of controlling or influencing someone or something in a clever or sometimes dishonest way.
Synonyms: Handling, Control, Influence
Antonyms: Honesty, Independence
Idioms and Phrases
- Pulling the strings: To control a situation or influence someone without them realising. Example: "She was pulling the strings behind the scenes, ensuring everyone did what she wanted."
- Playing with people's feelings: To manipulate someone's emotions for one's advantage. Example: "He was playing with her feelings, making her doubt what was real."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The magician's manipulation of cards amazed all the audience members as he made them disappear and reappear.
Example 2: Its important to recognise manipulation in relationships, so we can avoid being controlled by others.
Example 3: The scientist used clever manipulation of variables in the experiment to prove his theory.
Fun Fact
The word "manipulation" comes from the Latin word "manipulus," which means "a handful." It originally referred to the skillful handling of objects, but over time, it has taken on the meaning of influencing people or situations!
Famous Quote
"The greatest trick the Devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist." - Charles Baudelaire
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "manipulation" mean?
a) The act of being honest
b) The act of controlling or influencing
c) The act of ignoring someone
d) The act of playing games
Answer: b) The act of controlling or influencing
2. Which of these is a synonym of "manipulation"?
a) Control
b) Freedom
c) Innocence
d) Honesty
Answer: a) Control
3. What is the opposite of "manipulation"?
a) Influence
b) Honesty
c) Control
d) Persuasion
Answer: b) Honesty
4. Which sentence uses "manipulation" correctly?
a) Her manipulation of the puzzle pieces made it easier to solve.
b) The manipulation caused a sudden rainstorm in the area.
c) The manipulation of the birthday cake tasted so sweet.
d) The manipulation of the building was very straightforward.
Answer: a) Her manipulation of the puzzle pieces made it easier to solve.
5. Which idiom means similar to "manipulation"?
a) Pulling the strings
b) A penny for your thoughts
c) Burning the midnight oil
d) Under the weather
Answer: a) Pulling the strings
