Manipulates

Manipulates is the third-person singular simple present tense of 'manipulate'. The term refers to the act of skillfully handling, controlling, or influencing something or someone in a clever or often unfair manner. It can imply a degree of deception or trickery, especially when the manipulation is done with the intent to serve one’s own interests while disregarding those of others.

Manipulates meaning with examples

• In modern politics, it is often said that politicians manipulate the truth to sway public opinion. They craft their messages carefully, selecting words designed to resonate emotionally with their constituents, while leaving out inconvenient facts. Such manipulation can lead to significant shifts in voter behavior, as individuals react more to the emotional appeal than the factual accuracy of the information presented.
• In a corporate setting, a manager may manipulate data to present a more favorable quarterly report. By omitting certain expenditures and emphasizing revenues, the manager creates a misleading snapshot of the company’s financial health. This type of manipulation can mislead shareholders and impact decision-making processes, ultimately resulting in a lack of transparency and trust within the organization.
• During therapy sessions, a skilled therapist manipulates the conversation to help clients uncover hidden emotions. Through intentional questioning and redirection, the therapist guides clients to explore underlying issues that they might not initially recognize. This therapeutic manipulation, when done ethically and with consent, can facilitate profound personal insights and promote healing in a controlled manner, fostering personal growth.
• In social dynamics, individuals may manipulate their peers by exploiting relationships for personal gain. For example, one friend may feign loyalty while secretly undermining another to gain social status. Such manipulation can create toxic environments, leading to distrust and conflict within groups. Recognizing this behavior is essential for maintaining authentic relationships and ensuring that interactions are based on integrity and respect.