tampering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tampering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the act of interfering with something in a way that causes damage or alters its original state, often in a negative context. Example: "The evidence was deemed inadmissible due to signs of tampering with the documents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

And now the Electronic Frontier Foundation, which has fought for digital civil liberties since 1990, has launched a campaign to eradicate digital rights management (DRM) called Apollo 1201, referring to the section of the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) that prevents users tampering with the digital locks on the things they own, such as books, music and movies.

The Guardian - Books

The figures exclude cancer cases, which are currently under separate investigation after the hospital was accused of tampering with data last November.

The Guardian

"Despite our conviction that there was no tampering with footballs, it was our intention to accept any discipline levied by the league," a team statement said.

The Guardian - Sport

"It was absolutely unacceptable how the victims' bodies were treated in the aftermath of the tragedy," he added, in reference to alleged tampering by rebels at the crash site.

The Guardian

England found themselves under scrutiny following their 25-run win over West Indies in the deciding ODI as it emerged that the umpires changed one of the two balls they used at around the mid point of the West Indies innings because of "unnatural deterioration" – tampering in other words, although no five-run penalty was issued.

The Guardian - Sport

Timothy Dolan, New York's archbishop, lambasted lawmakers for tampering "with a definition as old as human reason".

The Economist

Rebel without a cause Tampering with Jerusalem V-exed by Iraq Peasants' revolt ReprintsAlthough Mr Butler, last week, seemed to be sounding relatively optimistic about an end to sanctions, the VX issue is not the only point of contention between Iraq and UNSCOM.

The Economist

After the IMF threatened to censure the country for tampering with inflation data, in January INDEC rolled out a new consumer price index (CPINu).

The Economist

But tampering with this system may not appeal to state leaders whose support Congress needs, such as Laloo Prasad Yadav of Bihar, a state notorious for economic underperformance.However, fears that reforms are about to be shelved, and the markets' reaction, seem excessive.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

How, and why, do players tamper with cricket balls?Ball-tampering is considered a serious offence in cricket, though it does not always seem hugely different from the "ball management" practised by many teams.

The Economist

What is now understood by ball-tampering, though, is the careful treatment of the ball into a condition that will enable it, with the aid of a skilled operator, to reverse-swing.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or forensic contexts, use "tampering" to specifically denote unauthorized alteration of evidence or data. For less formal situations, consider using synonyms like "interference" or "manipulation".

Common error

Avoid using "tampering" when simply describing a change or modification. The term often carries a negative connotation, so use more neutral words like "adjustment" or "alteration" if the intent is not malicious or unauthorized.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "tampering" is as a noun, often used to describe the act of interfering with something, typically in a way that is unauthorized or harmful. Ludwig provides examples showcasing its use in describing "tampering with evidence" or data.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "tampering" is a noun frequently used to denote unauthorized or illicit alteration, predominantly in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. When using "tampering", ensure the context involves improper or illegal changes, differentiating it from neutral alterations. Related terms include "interference" and "manipulation", each with slightly different connotations. It's register is generally considered neutral, leaning towards formal in professional settings, emphasizing its applicability across various communication channels.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

interference

General term for hindering or meddling, broader than "tampering" which implies alteration.

manipulation

Suggests skillful handling, often with a negative connotation of deceit or control.

alteration

A more neutral term indicating change, without necessarily implying malicious intent.

falsification

Specific to making something false or untrue, often applied to data or records.

corruption

Implies decay or impurity, often used in the context of data or systems.

adulteration

Making something impure or inferior, often by adding foreign substances.

vandalism

Deliberate destruction or damage to property, broader than "tampering".

sabotage

Deliberately damaging or obstructing something, often for political or military advantage.

wrecking

To destroy or severely damage.

disruption

Interrupting the normal course or state of something.

FAQs

How is "tampering" typically used in a sentence?

The word "tampering" is generally used to describe unauthorized or illegal interference with something. For example, "The investigation revealed signs of "tampering with evidence"".

What's the difference between "tampering" and "interference"?

"Tampering" typically implies an unauthorized alteration or manipulation, often with negative consequences. "Interference", on the other hand, is a broader term that simply means getting involved or hindering something, and doesn't necessarily imply malicious intent. Depending on the context "interference" could be neutral.

When should I use "tampering" over "manipulation"?

Use "tampering" when referring to unauthorized or illegal alteration, especially in legal or forensic contexts. "Manipulation" is more general and can refer to skillful handling or control, which may or may not be illicit. You can replace "tampering" with "manipulation" when the meaning is closer to skilful handling.

What are some synonyms for "tampering"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "interference", "manipulation", "alteration", or "falsification" as synonyms for "tampering". For example, in a legal context, "falsification" might be the most appropriate synonym.