Top 40 Slang For Manipulate – Meaning & Usage

Manipulation is a concept that we encounter in various aspects of our lives, from personal relationships to the workplace. But have you ever wondered about the different ways people describe this behavior? In this listicle, we’ve gathered the top slang terms for manipulate that you might not be familiar with. Whether you’re looking to expand your vocabulary or simply curious about the ever-evolving English language, this article is sure to pique your interest. Get ready to dive into the world of manipulation and discover some eye-opening slang!

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1. Snow job

This phrase refers to an attempt to deceive or manipulate someone through elaborate and persuasive tactics. It implies that the person is being “snowed” or fooled by the manipulator.

For example, a politician might give a speech full of empty promises and exaggerated claims, leading the audience to believe they will take action. This could be described as a “snow job.”
In a sales context, a salesperson might use persuasive techniques and false claims to convince a customer to buy a product they don’t really need. This would also be considered a “snow job.”
If someone tells a long and elaborate story to avoid taking responsibility for their actions, they are attempting a “snow job.”

2. Lead up the garden path

This phrase means to deceive or mislead someone, often by leading them to believe something that is not true or by manipulating their emotions or expectations.

For instance, if someone promises a job promotion to an employee, but then gives it to someone else without explanation, they have led the employee up the garden path.
In a romantic relationship, if one partner leads the other to believe they are committed and faithful, but is secretly seeing someone else, they are leading them up the garden path.
If a company advertises a product as a miracle cure for a certain condition, but it turns out to be ineffective, they have led consumers up the garden path.

3. Pull the strings

This phrase means to have control or influence over a situation or person, often in a manipulative or secretive way. It implies that the person is orchestrating events behind the scenes.

For example, a powerful CEO might be pulling the strings in a company, making all the important decisions without the knowledge of the employees.
In politics, a behind-the-scenes figure might pull the strings to manipulate the outcome of an election or influence government policies.
If someone is able to get their way in a group project by secretly manipulating others and making them do the work, they are pulling the strings.

4. Play games

This phrase refers to engaging in manipulative or deceitful behavior, often for personal gain or amusement. It implies that the person is not being genuine or honest in their actions.

For instance, if someone flirts with multiple people at the same time without any intention of pursuing a serious relationship, they are playing games with their emotions.
In a business negotiation, if one party intentionally misleads the other to gain an advantage, they are playing games.
If someone constantly changes their mind and makes contradictory statements in order to confuse others and gain control, they are playing games.

5. Twist someone’s arm

This phrase means to use persuasion or pressure to convince someone to do something they may not want to do. It implies that the person is being forced or manipulated into taking a particular action.

For example, if a friend doesn’t want to go to a party, but you keep insisting and using persuasive tactics to change their mind, you are twisting their arm.
In a business context, if a manager pressures an employee to work overtime by making them feel guilty or threatened, they are twisting their arm.
If a parent uses emotional manipulation to convince their child to do something against their will, they are twisting their arm.

6. String along

To deceive or manipulate someone by keeping them interested or hopeful without any intention of fulfilling their expectations or commitments.

For example, “He’s been stringing her along for months, making her believe they have a future together.”
In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might say, “Don’t let anyone string you along and play with your emotions.”
A friend might warn, “Be careful with him, he has a tendency to string people along.”

7. Gaslight

To manipulate someone’s perception of reality in order to make them doubt their own memory, perception, or sanity. This term originates from the play and movie “Gaslight,” where a husband intentionally manipulates his wife’s perception of reality.

For instance, “He gaslights his employees by constantly changing the rules and then denying that he ever made those changes.”
In a discussion about emotional abuse, someone might say, “Gaslighting is a common tactic used by manipulative partners.”
A person might share their experience, “I was gaslighted by my ex, and it took me a while to realize what was happening.”

8. Pull a fast one

To deceive or trick someone, often by doing something unexpected or dishonest.

For example, “He pulled a fast one on his friends by pretending to be sick and then showing up at the party.”
In a conversation about pranks, someone might say, “I’m planning to pull a fast one on my roommate by hiding all his socks.”
A person might warn their friends, “Be careful with him, he’s known for pulling fast ones on people.”

9. Work someone over

To manipulate or exploit someone for personal gain or advantage.

For instance, “He’s been working her over for years, taking advantage of her kindness and generosity.”
In a discussion about abusive relationships, someone might say, “He constantly works her over to control her and make her feel worthless.”
A person might share their experience, “I was worked over by my former boss, who made me do all the difficult tasks while taking credit for my work.”

10. Put words in someone’s mouth

To attribute words or opinions to someone that they did not actually say or believe, often in order to manipulate or deceive others.

For example, “He put words in her mouth during the meeting to make it seem like she supported his idea.”
In a discussion about media manipulation, someone might say, “Politicians often put words in their opponents’ mouths to twist their statements.”
A person might warn their friend, “Don’t trust him, he has a habit of putting words in people’s mouths to make himself look better.”

11. Puppeteer

A puppeteer is someone who controls the actions and behaviors of others, much like a manipulator. It refers to someone who pulls the strings and manipulates others to do their bidding.

For example, in a political context, one might say, “He is the puppeteer behind the scenes, controlling the entire operation.”
In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might describe a manipulative partner as a puppeteer, saying, “She was a master puppeteer, manipulating every aspect of my life.”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “I used to be a puppeteer, but now I’ve learned to be more authentic and genuine in my relationships.”

12. Brainwash

Brainwashing refers to the manipulation of someone’s thoughts, beliefs, or behaviors through psychological tactics. It involves exerting control over someone’s mind to make them believe or act in a certain way.

For instance, in a cult setting, members might be brainwashed into following a charismatic leader without question.
In a discussion about propaganda, one might say, “The government uses media to brainwash the masses and control public opinion.”
A person reflecting on a past experience might say, “I was in a toxic relationship where my partner constantly tried to brainwash me into thinking I was worthless.”

13. Sweet talk

Sweet talk refers to using charming and flattering words to manipulate or deceive someone. It involves saying things that sound pleasant or appealing in order to get someone to do what you want.

For example, a salesperson might sweet talk a customer into buying an expensive product they don’t really need.
In a discussion about manipulation tactics, one might say, “Beware of people who try to sweet talk you into doing something against your better judgment.”
A person reflecting on a past experience might say, “I fell for his sweet talk and ended up getting hurt in the end.”

14. Mind games

Mind games refer to manipulative tactics that involve playing with someone’s emotions, thoughts, or perceptions to gain control or power over them. It often involves creating confusion, doubt, or insecurity in order to manipulate someone’s actions or decisions.

For instance, in a toxic relationship, one partner might play mind games by intentionally causing jealousy or insecurity.
In a discussion about workplace manipulation, one might say, “She’s always playing mind games with her colleagues to get ahead.”
A person reflecting on a past experience might say, “I was constantly caught up in his mind games, never knowing what was real and what was manipulation.”

15. Convince

Convince refers to using persuasive tactics to manipulate someone into believing or accepting something. It involves presenting arguments or evidence in a way that influences someone’s thoughts or decisions.

For example, a politician might try to convince voters to support their campaign through persuasive speeches and promises.
In a discussion about manipulation techniques, one might say, “He has a way of convincing people to do things they initially didn’t want to do.”
A person reflecting on a past experience might say, “I was convinced by his manipulative tactics, but now I see through his lies.”

16. Coax

To coax someone means to persuade or convince them in a gentle or gradual manner. It often involves using flattery or kind words to manipulate someone into doing what you want.

For example, a parent might coax their child into eating their vegetables by saying, “Just take one bite, it’s really delicious!”
In a sales pitch, a salesperson might coax a customer into buying a product by saying, “You won’t find a better deal anywhere else.”
A manipulative person might coax their partner into doing something they don’t want to do by saying, “It would mean so much to me if you did this.”

17. Influence

To influence someone means to have an impact on their thoughts, beliefs, or actions. It can involve using various tactics to manipulate someone’s decision-making process.

For instance, advertisers often use celebrities to influence consumers to buy their products.
A politician might try to influence voters by promising certain policies or making appealing speeches.
In a social setting, someone might try to influence their friends’ choice of restaurant by saying, “I heard this place has amazing food.”

18. Dupe

To dupe someone means to deceive or trick them into believing something false or making a foolish mistake. It involves manipulating someone’s trust or naivety for personal gain.

For example, a scammer might dupe an elderly person into giving them their bank account information by pretending to be a bank representative.
A con artist might dupe someone into buying a fake painting by convincing them it’s a valuable masterpiece.
A manipulative person might dupe their friend into loaning them money by making up a sob story.

19. Hoodwink

To hoodwink someone means to deceive or trick them into believing something false or making a fool of them. It involves manipulating someone’s perception or understanding for personal gain.

For instance, a magician might hoodwink their audience by making something disappear and then reappear.
A fraudster might hoodwink investors by creating a fake company and promising high returns.
A manipulative person might hoodwink their partner into thinking they’re faithful while secretly cheating on them.

20. Swindle

To swindle someone means to cheat or deceive them in order to obtain something, usually money or valuables. It often involves using cunning or dishonest tactics to manipulate someone’s trust or vulnerability.

For example, a fake charity might swindle people out of their donations by pretending to support a cause.
A dishonest salesperson might swindle a customer by selling them a faulty product.
A manipulative person might swindle their elderly relative out of their inheritance by convincing them to change their will.

21. Bamboozle

To bamboozle someone means to deceive or trick them in a clever or cunning way. It often involves confusing or misleading someone to gain an advantage.

For example, “He tried to bamboozle me with his elaborate story, but I saw through his lies.”
In a game of poker, a player might say, “I’m going to bamboozle my opponents with my poker face.”
A salesperson might use tactics to bamboozle customers into buying unnecessary products.

22. Trickery

Trickery refers to the use of deceitful or cunning methods to manipulate or deceive someone. It involves using clever tactics or strategies to gain an advantage over others.

For instance, “He used trickery to convince his friends to do his homework for him.”
In a magic show, the magician’s tricks are a form of trickery meant to deceive the audience.
A person might say, “I see through your trickery. You won’t fool me.”

23. Devious

Being devious means showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve one’s goals. It involves being cunning or sly in order to manipulate or deceive others.

For example, “She had a devious plan to get her rival fired.”
In a political campaign, candidates often use devious tactics to discredit their opponents.
A person might say, “I don’t trust him. He’s always coming up with devious ways to get what he wants.”

24. Machiavellian

Machiavellian refers to using cunning and deceitful methods for personal gain. It is derived from the political philosophy of Niccolò Machiavelli, who advocated for the use of any means necessary to achieve one’s goals.

For instance, “He has a Machiavellian mindset, always plotting and scheming to get ahead.”
In a business setting, a Machiavellian leader might manipulate their colleagues to maintain control and power.
A person might say, “Beware of his Machiavellian tactics. He’ll stop at nothing to get what he wants.”

25. Pull strings

To pull strings means to exert influence or control over others in order to manipulate a situation to one’s advantage. It involves using connections or relationships to get what one wants.

For example, “He pulled some strings to get his friend a job at the company.”
In a political context, powerful individuals might pull strings behind the scenes to ensure their preferred candidate wins an election.
A person might say, “I know people who can pull strings to get us VIP access to the concert.”

26. Finagle

To finagle means to manipulate or deceive someone in order to achieve a desired outcome. It often involves cunning or clever tactics.

For example, “He managed to finagle his way into getting a discount on the car.”
In a discussion about negotiating, someone might say, “You have to be willing to finagle a bit to get the best deal.”
A person might warn, “Watch out for people who try to finagle you into doing something against your best interests.”

27. Manipulative

Being manipulative means using cunning or deceitful tactics to control or influence others for personal gain.

For instance, “She is known for her manipulative behavior, always getting others to do what she wants.”
In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might say, “He was incredibly manipulative, always twisting things to make me feel guilty.”
A person might caution, “Be careful of manipulative individuals who try to exploit your vulnerabilities.”

28. Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where someone makes another person doubt their own perception of reality or question their sanity.

For example, “He constantly gaslights his partner, making her doubt her own memories.”
In a discussion about emotional abuse, someone might say, “Gaslighting is a common tactic used by manipulative individuals.”
A person might warn, “If someone is constantly making you doubt yourself, they may be gaslighting you.”

29. Play mind games

Playing mind games refers to manipulating someone’s thoughts, emotions, or perceptions in order to gain an advantage or control over them.

For instance, “She would play mind games with her opponents to throw them off their game.”
In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might say, “He would constantly play mind games, making me doubt my own worth.”
A person might advise, “Don’t let someone play mind games with you, it’s important to maintain your own sense of self.”

30. Work someone like a puppet

To work someone like a puppet means to control or manipulate someone’s actions or decisions as if they were a puppet, with the manipulator pulling the strings.

For example, “He had her wrapped around his finger, working her like a puppet.”
In a discussion about power dynamics, someone might say, “Manipulative people often try to work others like puppets to fulfill their own desires.”
A person might caution, “Don’t let someone work you like a puppet, stand up for yourself and assert your own autonomy.”

31. Twist the truth

This phrase refers to manipulating or distorting the truth in order to deceive or mislead someone. It suggests that the truth is being twisted or bent out of shape to serve a particular agenda.

For instance, a politician might twist the truth in a campaign speech to make their opponent look bad.
In a courtroom, a lawyer might try to twist the truth to make their client appear innocent.
A person might say, “Don’t believe everything he says, he has a tendency to twist the truth.”

32. Puppet master

This term refers to someone who is skilled at manipulating others and controlling them like puppets on strings. It implies that the person has complete control over the actions and decisions of others.

For example, a boss who manipulates their employees to do their bidding might be called a puppet master.
In a toxic relationship, one partner might be the puppet master, manipulating the other’s emotions and actions.
A person might say, “He’s a real puppet master, always pulling the strings behind the scenes.”

33. Influence tactics

These are various techniques or methods used to influence or manipulate others. They can range from subtle persuasion to more overt forms of manipulation.

For instance, a salesperson might use influence tactics to convince a customer to make a purchase.
In a political campaign, candidates often employ influence tactics to sway voters.
A person might say, “He’s always using influence tactics to get what he wants.”

34. Covert manipulation

This refers to manipulation that is done in a hidden or secretive manner, often without the person being manipulated realizing what is happening. It involves subtle tactics and manipulation techniques.

For example, a manipulative partner might use covert manipulation to control their significant other’s actions and decisions.
In a workplace setting, a coworker might engage in covert manipulation to undermine a colleague’s success.
A person might say, “She’s a master at covert manipulation, always getting what she wants without anyone suspecting a thing.”

35. Emotional manipulation

This term refers to the act of manipulating someone’s emotions in order to control or influence their actions or decisions. It involves using emotional tactics to exploit someone’s vulnerabilities.

For instance, a manipulative person might use emotional manipulation to guilt trip someone into doing something they don’t want to do.
In a toxic friendship, one person might use emotional manipulation to keep the other person dependent on them.
A person might say, “He’s always resorting to emotional manipulation to get his way.”

36. Emotional blackmail

Emotional blackmail refers to the act of using someone’s emotions as a means of controlling or manipulating them for personal gain. It involves exploiting someone’s vulnerabilities or insecurities to make them feel guilty or obligated to comply with your wishes.

For example, a person might say, “If you don’t do what I want, I’ll tell everyone about that embarrassing thing you did.”
In a toxic relationship, one partner might use emotional blackmail to make the other partner feel responsible for their unhappiness.
A parent might guilt-trip their child by saying, “After all I’ve done for you, you can’t even do this one thing for me?”

37. Charmer

A charmer is someone who has a magnetic personality and uses their charm to manipulate or deceive others. They have a way of making people feel special or important, which they use to their advantage.

For instance, a charmer might compliment someone excessively to gain their trust and make them more susceptible to manipulation.
In a social setting, a charmer might use their charisma to manipulate people into doing things for them.
A person might warn their friend, “Be careful around him, he’s a real charmer.”

38. Master manipulator

A master manipulator is someone who is exceptionally skilled at manipulating others. They are adept at using various tactics, such as manipulation techniques, to control people and situations to their advantage.

For example, a master manipulator might use gaslighting to make someone doubt their own reality.
In a workplace setting, a master manipulator might manipulate their colleagues to gain power or promotions.
A person might say, “Watch out for her, she’s a master manipulator.”

39. Con artist

A con artist is someone who deceives or tricks others for personal gain. They often use elaborate schemes or lies to manipulate people into giving them money, information, or other resources.

For instance, a con artist might pose as a wealthy individual to gain someone’s trust and then scam them out of their savings.
In a financial scam, a con artist might promise high returns on investments to lure unsuspecting victims.
A person might warn others, “Don’t fall for his charm, he’s a con artist.”

40. Smooth talker

A smooth talker is someone who is skilled at persuading or convincing others with their words. They have a way of using language to manipulate or charm people into doing what they want.

For example, a smooth talker might convince someone to lend them money by offering convincing arguments and promises.
In a sales setting, a smooth talker might use persuasive techniques to sell products or services.
A person might say, “Be careful, he’s a smooth talker who can talk his way out of anything.”