manipulate the process

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "manipulate the process" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of influencing or controlling a procedure or system to achieve a desired outcome. Example: "In order to improve efficiency, we need to manipulate the process of data collection to streamline our workflow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"They need to know their stuff – not try and manipulate the process.

Independent

Both cooling and antisolvent addition are applied at both stages to manipulate the process.

Chemical Engineering Science

"We have some people from the ruling party trying to manipulate the process to their advantage," Ewadu told the Guardian.

The Guardian

"The fact of the matter is, those who have been able to manipulate the process don't want to get rid of it".

The New York Times

No matter how the system seems to be changed, insiders always find a way to manipulate the process to their benefit".

The New York Times

One criticized its efforts to manipulate the process of enacting a new constitution, and shook his head sadly at the violence.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

The prosecution have manipulated the process".

The Guardian

The regime is used to manipulating the process and wasting time.

The Guardian

A few, though, have them often and some have become good at manipulating the process.

The Economist

Fiber quality was optimized by manipulating the process and solution variables to fabricate continuous bead-free fibers.

Polymer

The profile of Scott Boras in the New Yorker last week dubbed him The Extortionist for his talent at manipulating the process of selling his clients to the highest bidder.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "manipulate the process", be aware of potential negative connotations. Consider alternatives like "influence" or "guide" if a neutral or positive tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "manipulate the process" in highly formal or academic writing where precision and neutrality are paramount. Opt for more objective terms like "control" or "adjust" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "manipulate the process" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe actions taken to influence or control a system or procedure. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is acceptable in written English. Examples show its use across diverse contexts, often with a connotation of skillful, though potentially underhanded, influence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

21%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "manipulate the process" is a frequently used verb phrase denoting actions aimed at influencing or controlling a procedure or system, as supported by numerous examples provided by Ludwig. While grammatically correct, it carries a nuanced connotation that can range from skillful management to underhanded influence. As per Ludwig AI, it's important to be mindful of the potential negative implications and consider alternative phrasing when neutrality is desired. Usage is highest in news and media, followed by science and academic contexts, indicating its broad applicability across various communication registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

influence the procedure

Focuses on affecting the course of action, subtly shifting the emphasis from direct control.

control the mechanism

Highlights governance and command over the system's functions.

affect the outcome

Stresses altering the end result rather than managing the method itself.

manage the operation

Emphasizes overseeing and directing the workflow.

direct the course

Illustrates steering and guiding the progression of events.

shape the development

Suggests molding and forming the advancement of something.

mold the progression

Refers to forming and shaping the process as it advances.

alter the methodology

Indicates changing the set of methods and principles used.

adjust the system

Suggests making small changes to the existing system.

finagle the system

Implies using cunning or devious methods to influence the system, suggesting a potentially negative connotation.

FAQs

How can I use "manipulate the process" in a sentence?

You can use "manipulate the process" to describe actions taken to influence a system or procedure to achieve a specific outcome. For instance, "They tried to "manipulate the process" to favor their candidate".

What are some alternatives to "manipulate the process"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "influence the process", "control the process", or "adjust the process".

Is "manipulate the process" always negative?

While "manipulate" can have negative connotations, it isn't always negative. It depends on the context and the intent behind the manipulation. Sometimes, it simply means to skillfully handle or control a procedure.

What's the difference between "manipulate the process" and "control the process"?

"Manipulate the process" often implies a degree of skill or finesse, sometimes with a hint of deception or indirect influence. "Control the process" is more direct and suggests a stronger, more overt influence.