manipulative
adj. B2 Upper Intermediate US //məˈnɪpjəˌɫeɪtɪv// UK //mənˈɪpjʊlətˌɪv// ma·nip·u·la·tive
adj. describing someone who tries to control or influence people in a clever or unfair way to get what they want.
adj. characterised by the use of indirect, dishonest, or calculating tactics to influence the behaviour or emotions of others for personal gain.
He uses guilt to be manipulative and get his way.
The manager's manipulative behavior created a toxic environment where employees felt forced to compete against each other.
Psychologists often distinguish between healthy social influence and manipulative conduct, which relies on exploitation and the intentional distortion of facts to undermine another person's autonomy.
From manipulate + -ive.
Usage
Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'seem', or 'become'.