# manipulation

/məˌnɪpjəˈɫeɪʃən/ (US) · /mənˌɪpjʊlˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/manipulation
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 2. handling objects

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

moving or using something skillfully with your hands.

For teachers: the skillful handling or operation of an object or part of the body, often for medical or technical purposes.

- The surgeon's careful manipulation of the tools allowed for a very precise operation.
- The physical therapist performed a gentle manipulation of the patient's spine to relieve the pressure on the nerves.

### 3. changing data

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

changing information or data to get a specific result, sometimes dishonestly.

For teachers: the act of altering or processing data, variables, or accounts to achieve a specific result or to present a biased view.

- The software allows for easy manipulation of digital photos to change the colours.
- The investigation revealed widespread manipulation of the company's financial records to hide the growing debt from investors.

## Examples

- He is a master of emotional manipulation.
- The therapist used gentle physical manipulation to help the patient regain movement in her injured shoulder.
- The investigation revealed a sophisticated manipulation of the stock market, where false rumors were spread to artificially inflate the value of failing companies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.