we were manipulated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were manipulated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where individuals feel they were influenced or controlled by others, often in a deceptive manner. Example: "After reviewing the events of the past few months, it became clear that we were manipulated into making decisions that were not in our best interest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Yet, when we should have been free to abandon Spike – as a modern audience would after such a betrayal – we were manipulated to feel we couldn't.

Vice

I felt we were manipulated.

The Guardian - Music

Yes, we were manipulated and misinformed, but in the end responsible for capitulating to a deceptive administration.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"I wish we were," Paul said.

The New York Times - Sports

"We were," Derek Jeter said, "embarrassed".

The New York Times - Sports

Together we were Kelly Lowenstein.

Huffington Post

Because we're Young Ones.

The Economist

"They say we are Saddam.

The New York Times

We're Tina's friends.

The New Yorker

"Here we are," Ann said.

The New Yorker

"But we are!" Karlin said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were manipulated" to express a sense of being unfairly influenced or controlled, especially when highlighting the negative consequences of such influence. Ensure the context clearly indicates who or what was responsible for the manipulation.

Common error

Avoid using "we were manipulated" when the situation involves simple persuasion or influence without any malicious intent or significant negative impact. Overusing the phrase can weaken its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were manipulated" functions as a statement expressing a passive experience. It indicates that a group (represented by "we") was subjected to manipulation by an external force or entity. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts where the speaker feels unfairly influenced.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we were manipulated" is used to express a sense of having been unfairly influenced or controlled, often in a deceptive manner. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable. While the frequency of this phrase is rare, it is most commonly found in News & Media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly identifies the source of manipulation and the negative consequences experienced as a result. Consider alternatives like "we were deceived" or "we were influenced" to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were deceived

Emphasizes the act of being misled or tricked.

we were controlled

Focuses on the loss of autonomy and the exertion of power over us.

we were played

Suggests a cunning and strategic manipulation.

we were influenced

Highlights the impact of external factors on our actions or decisions, without necessarily implying malicious intent.

we were used

Indicates that we were treated as a means to an end, disregarding our own needs or feelings.

we were exploited

Stresses the unfair use of our vulnerability for someone else's benefit.

we were coerced

Highlights the use of pressure or threats to force us into doing something.

we were strong-armed

Implies aggressive tactics and intimidation to achieve compliance.

we were railroaded

Suggests being rushed or forced into a decision without proper consideration or due process.

we were hoodwinked

Focuses on being tricked or deceived in a blatant or obvious way.

FAQs

What does "we were manipulated" mean?

The phrase "we were manipulated" suggests that a group of people were unfairly influenced or controlled by someone or something, often in a deceptive way. It implies a loss of autonomy and potentially negative consequences.

What can I say instead of "we were manipulated"?

You can use alternatives like "we were deceived", "we were influenced", or "we were controlled" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "we were manipulated" a formal or informal expression?

"We were manipulated" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it is more commonly found in news reports, analytical articles, or personal narratives where a sense of injustice or unfair influence is being described.

How to use "we were manipulated" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "After the investigation, it became clear that we were manipulated into supporting the deal." It expresses the idea of having been unfairly influenced into a decision.