I manipulated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I manipulated" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an action where you have influenced or controlled something or someone, often in a context that implies skill or cunning. Example: "I manipulated the data to reveal the underlying trends in the research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

She pauses, a little smile playing on her face: "He said I manipulated him?" In Bower's book Cowell is quoted as saying: "She would come in dressed in her tracksuit and slippers, drop her eyes and play the soulful victim to get around me.

The Guardian

Accountants want to know which accounts I manipulated and how I got away with it for so long.

The New York Times

"Hey, I manipulated," Mr. Schubert responded.

The New York Times

Why do you say that? A. Because I used threats and I manipulated him to do things.

The New York Times

One after another, in the course of writing, I would spill out the sets of slivers, arrange them ladderlike on a card table, and refer to them as I manipulated the Underwood.

The New Yorker

I manipulated some footage on the computer, and I thought, 'Could I move it to the phone?' " As a result he created Dances for an iPhone, an application that has been available free through iTunes since the beginning of this year.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

On the other hand, The Western Women had strong feminist content (the majority of people involved in community plays being women), and in my play, called Entertaining Strangers, I manipulated Jellicoe's stricture that, if the villains have to be wicked capitalists, it's best to make them from out of town.

The Guardian

"I Love You Romance"!

The New York Times

@LilyAldridge #BadBloodMusicVideo pic.twitter.com/UBgWF05f1I Meet Cut-Throat.

Independent

"Can I?" Mr. Koch asked.

The New York Times

(i) Consistency and order.

Advances in Difference Equations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase when you specifically want to convey that you have skillfully influenced something or someone to achieve a particular outcome.

Common error

Ensure the context clarifies the intent. Using "I manipulated" without proper context can easily be misinterpreted as dishonest or unethical. Add details to show the manipulation was harmless or beneficial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I manipulated" functions as a declarative statement where the speaker is describing their action of influencing or controlling something. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it is often used to describe actions taken with skill or strategy, but also potentially with negative implications depending on context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I manipulated" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, conveying active influence or control. As shown by Ludwig, its usage spans diverse contexts, including news, science, and personal narratives. While generally acceptable, it's crucial to be aware of the potential negative connotations, as it can imply cunning or unethical behavior. Therefore, clarity and context are essential when using "I manipulated" to ensure the intended meaning is accurately conveyed. Consider alternatives like "I influenced" or "I handled" to adjust the tone and emphasis based on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I influenced

This alternative is less forceful and implies a more subtle form of control.

I controlled

This alternative emphasizes a more direct and dominant form of management.

I handled

This alternative suggests managing or dealing with something, often with skill.

I managed

This alternative implies skillful handling or directing of resources or people.

I shaped

This alternative suggests molding or influencing the form of something.

I guided

This alternative suggests leading or directing someone or something, often with expertise.

I directed

This alternative implies giving instructions or orders, often in a professional setting.

I orchestrated

This alternative suggests planning and coordinating something complex, often with a positive connotation.

I engineered

This alternative implies designing or constructing something, often with technical skill.

I exploited

This alternative has a negative connotation, suggesting using something or someone unfairly for personal gain.

FAQs

How can I use "I manipulated" in a sentence?

You can use "I manipulated" to describe how you skillfully influenced something. For example, "I manipulated the data to show a clearer trend" or "I manipulated the situation to our advantage".

What are some alternatives to "I manipulated"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "I influenced", "I controlled", or "I handled".

When is it appropriate to use "I manipulated"?

It is appropriate to use "I manipulated" when you want to convey that you skillfully influenced something or someone, but be mindful of the negative connotation it can carry. Ensure the context clarifies the intent and minimizes potential misinterpretations.

What's the difference between "I manipulated" and "I influenced"?

"I manipulated" often implies a more forceful or strategic influence, whereas "I influenced" suggests a more subtle or persuasive effect. The choice depends on the degree and nature of the impact you wish to convey.