manipulate

Pronunciation

Verb B1 Intermediate

To control or influence someone or something in a clever, often unfair way.

"He tried to manipulate the numbers to make the report look better."

Synonyms and antonyms

control exploit

"Manipulate" can also mean simply to handle an object skillfully, a neutral sense used in science and engineering.

Which word fits the gap? "He tried to _____ the numbers to make the report look better."

Answer: manipulate

In your own words, what does "manipulate" mean?

To control or influence someone or something in a clever, often unfair way.