attempt to manipulate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attempt to manipulate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an effort to influence or control someone or something in a deceptive or unfair manner. Example: "The politician's attempt to manipulate public opinion was evident in his speech."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then amused at her attempt to manipulate.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Sméagol does not lie, deceive, or attempt to manipulate others.

The Guardian - Books

They're going to attempt to manipulate you into sharing, liking and retweeting their messages.

The Guardian - Opinion

Georghiou doesn't rate the Wye Valley's attempt to manipulate the English season with their autumn asparagus.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Spokesmen for Mr. Krzaklewski and the government denied any attempt to manipulate the legal process.

The New York Times

If there was no Republican attempt to manipulate intelligence, then none will be found.

The New York Times

"It didn't really work out for the UCI in their attempt to manipulate the medal table.

Independent

Small wonder, then, that many governments attempt to manipulate the economy to boost their political fortunes.

The Economist

He played up his mental state in a suspicious attempt to manipulate his defense.

The New York Times - Books

ANNALS OF TELEVISION about the Nixon Administration's organized attempt to manipulate the media.

The New Yorker

Conservative evangelicals have denounced the scheme as an attempt to manipulate opinion, which of course it is.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "attempt to manipulate", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific methods or tactics being employed to exert influence, avoiding vague or unsubstantiated accusations.

Common error

Avoid using "attempt to manipulate" when describing legitimate persuasive efforts. Manipulation implies deception or unfair tactics, so use it judiciously to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attempt to manipulate" primarily functions as a verb phrase expressing the intent to exert control through potentially underhanded means. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is used to describe efforts aimed at influencing or controlling situations or individuals, often with negative implications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "attempt to manipulate" is a common and generally correct expression used to describe efforts to control or influence someone or something, often through deceptive or unfair means. Ludwig AI highlights its frequent use across news and media, science, and other formal contexts. While grammatically sound, it's important to use this phrase judiciously, recognizing its negative connotations and ensuring that the context accurately reflects the presence of manipulative intent. Alternatives like "try to influence" or "seek to control" may be more appropriate in neutral contexts. Therefore, clarity and accuracy are paramount when employing the phrase "attempt to manipulate".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try to influence

Replaces "attempt to manipulate" with a more neutral term, focusing on influence rather than control.

seek to control

Emphasizes the intention to exert control, removing the element of effort or trial.

endeavor to influence

Formal synonym, replacing "attempt" with "endeavor" for a more sophisticated tone.

aim to sway

Highlights the goal of persuasion, shifting the focus from direct manipulation.

undertake to manage

Implies a formal effort to handle or direct something, often in a business context.

strive to orchestrate

Suggests a complex and careful effort to arrange or control events.

make an effort to steer

Focuses on guiding or directing something, often implying a subtle influence.

take steps to maneuver

Emphasizes strategic actions taken to gain an advantage or control.

try to dominate

Highlights the intention to gain dominance or control, often in a competitive context.

aspire to regulate

Implies an ambition to control or govern something, often in a formal or official capacity.

FAQs

How can I use "attempt to manipulate" in a sentence?

You can use "attempt to manipulate" to describe someone's effort to control a situation or another person, often through unfair or deceitful means. For example, "The advertisement was an "attempt to manipulate" consumers' buying habits".

What are some alternatives to "attempt to manipulate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "try to influence", "seek to control", or "endeavor to influence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to "attempt to manipulate" something?

Yes, the phrase "attempt to manipulate" generally carries a negative connotation because manipulation typically involves unfair, deceptive, or unethical tactics to gain control or influence.

What is the difference between "attempt to manipulate" and "try to persuade"?

"Attempt to manipulate" implies using devious or underhanded methods to control someone or something, whereas "try to persuade" suggests a more ethical and transparent effort to convince someone through reason or argument.