subtle manipulation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subtle manipulation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone influences or controls another person or situation in a clever or indirect way, often without the other party realizing it. Example: "The politician's subtle manipulation of public opinion was evident in the way he framed the debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

These days, we prefer the subtle manipulation of the algorithm to the overt glamour of the "style guide".

The New Yorker

Jenny Gilbert, Independent on Sunday, 2007 "No other choreographer combines such a thrilling command of rhythm with such subtle manipulation of spatial dynamics.

The Guardian

This was before I'd read Lauren Collins's fascinating and somewhat troubling piece on the mega-chain (if I headed back down to Red Hook today, I'd probably spend my time obsessing over the strange and subtle manipulation that IKEA attempts to work on its customers).

The New Yorker

Lomax wrote that the exactly milled and tuned strings of the guitar offered "a range of notes that, with the subtle manipulation of finger and slide, can be made to emit the nuance of speech and really talk the blues in every region, as well as define other wordless feelings with the utmost delicacy".

The New York Times

I find that this subtle manipulation of ambiguity (over the when stoppages will happen) eliminates the restart effect.

Economics Letters

Vignettes are ideal for answering our research question because they allow subtle manipulation; in fact, the manipulation can be limited to only one or two words.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Both the incendiary anger of this piece and its subtle manipulations -- what did she expect people to do about a heap of bloody rags, after all?

The New York Times - Arts

Eye-grabbing distractions — to mask a palmed card or coin, say — are only the crudest ways to exploit brain processes that allow for more subtle manipulations, good magicians learn.

The New York Times - Science

While her husband controlled the secret police and special forces, Madame Nhu acted as a forceful counterweight to the diffident president, badgering Diem's aides, allies and critics with unwelcome advice, public threats and subtle manipulations.

The New York Times

The Widower is not sufficiently compelling a story to stand alone, and without a proper sense of motivation or evidence of the surely more subtle manipulations the man engaged in, it is hard to believe in Mr or any of the Mrs Websters.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Although archaeologists have largely missed these subtle manipulations of marine ecosystems, they represent an important part of ancient management systems.

Ecological Processes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subtle manipulation", ensure the context clearly indicates who is being manipulated and the intent behind the manipulation to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "subtle manipulation" when the action is overtly forceful or easily detected. The key to "subtle manipulation" is its imperceptible nature.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subtle manipulation" functions as a noun phrase, where "subtle" modifies the noun "manipulation". It describes a type of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "subtle manipulation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes indirect influence, often with a negative connotation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is valid across various contexts, from news to science. While direct synonyms are limited, related phrases like "delicate influence" or "covert influence" can be used depending on the specific nuance intended. Understanding the scope and implications of "subtle manipulation" is crucial for precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delicate influence

Emphasizes the finesse and care involved in the act of influencing.

indirect control

Highlights the lack of directness in the control being exerted.

covert influence

Focuses on the secretive or hidden nature of the influence.

artful persuasion

Suggests skill and creativity in the act of persuading.

gentle persuasion

Highlights the mild and non-coercive approach to influencing.

careful maneuvering

Implies a strategic and cautious approach to achieving a goal.

understated coercion

Highlights that even if not apparent, the coercion is still present.

gradual influence

Focuses on the slow and incremental nature of the influence.

insidious control

Emphasizes the negative and harmful nature of the control.

unobtrusive direction

Focuses on the low-profile or discreet nature of the guidance.

FAQs

How can "subtle manipulation" be used in a sentence?

You can use "subtle manipulation" to describe someone influencing others indirectly, such as, "The advertisement used "subtle manipulation" to persuade consumers to buy the product."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "subtle manipulation"?

Alternatives to "subtle manipulation" include "delicate influence", "indirect control", or "covert influence" depending on the specific context.

Is "subtle manipulation" negative in connotation?

Yes, "subtle manipulation" often carries a negative connotation, as it implies that someone is being influenced or controlled in a deceptive or underhanded way. However, the negativity depends on the context. It can be neutral when talking about marketing for example, such as "careful maneuvering".

What is the difference between "subtle manipulation" and persuasion?

"Subtle manipulation" often involves deception or indirect methods, while persuasion is generally more transparent and relies on logical arguments and appeals to emotion.