Top 51 Slang For Manipulated – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to navigating the world of persuasion and deception, understanding the slang for manipulated can give you a leg up in recognizing when you’re being played. Our team has put together a list of the most common terms used to describe being manipulated, so you can stay one step ahead and protect yourself from those looking to take advantage. Dive into this listicle and arm yourself with the knowledge to spot manipulation tactics before they even begin.

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1. Played

This slang term refers to being tricked or deceived by someone. It implies that the person was manipulated or taken advantage of in some way.

For example, “I thought I was getting a good deal, but I got played by the salesman.”
Someone might say, “Don’t trust him, he’s known for playing people.”
In a discussion about relationships, a person might share, “I got played by my ex, and it took me a while to realize it.”

2. Swindled

To be swindled means to be cheated or deceived, typically in a financial or business transaction. It implies that the person was manipulated into giving away something of value.

For instance, “I invested in a fraudulent scheme and got swindled out of my savings.”
A person might warn others, “Be careful of online scams, you don’t want to get swindled.”
In a conversation about a dishonest business deal, someone might say, “He swindled me out of thousands of dollars.”

3. Conned

Being conned means being tricked or deceived by someone, often in a deliberate and calculated manner. It implies that the person used manipulation and deceit to gain an advantage.

For example, “He conned me into buying a fake watch.”
Someone might say, “Don’t fall for his lies, he’s a professional con artist.”
In a discussion about scams, a person might share, “I was conned into giving away my personal information.”

4. Hoodwinked

To be hoodwinked means to be deceived or tricked, often in a clever or crafty way. It implies that the person was manipulated into believing something that is not true.

For instance, “I was hoodwinked into signing a contract without reading the fine print.”
A person might say, “Don’t let him hoodwink you with his smooth talk.”
In a conversation about a misleading advertisement, someone might say, “They hoodwinked me into buying a product that doesn’t work.”

5. Bamboozled

Being bamboozled means being fooled or tricked in a confusing or bewildering manner. It implies that the person was manipulated or deceived in a way that left them feeling disoriented or perplexed.

For example, “I was bamboozled by his elaborate magic trick.”
Someone might say, “Don’t let them bamboozle you with their mind games.”
In a discussion about a misleading sales pitch, a person might share, “I felt bamboozled by their false promises.”

6. Gaslit

To be “gaslit” means to be manipulated or deceived by someone through psychological manipulation. The term originates from the play and subsequent movie “Gaslight,” in which a husband manipulates his wife into believing she is going insane.

For example, “She felt like she was being gaslit by her partner, who constantly denied things he had said.”
In a discussion about emotional abuse, someone might say, “Gaslighting is a common tactic used by abusers to control their victims.”
A person sharing a personal experience might write, “I was gaslit by my boss, who made me doubt my own abilities and constantly undermined my work.”

7. Brainwashed

To be “brainwashed” means to be manipulated or controlled by someone through intense indoctrination or persuasion. The term refers to the idea that one’s thoughts and beliefs have been completely altered or controlled by another person or group.

For instance, “She was brainwashed by the cult and believed everything they told her.”
In a discussion about propaganda, someone might say, “The government uses media to brainwash the population and control their thoughts.”
A person sharing their experience might write, “I was brainwashed by a toxic relationship and it took me a long time to break free from their control.”

8. Coerced

To be “coerced” means to be manipulated or influenced by someone through force, threats, or intimidation. The term implies that one is being compelled to do something against their will or better judgment.

For example, “He was coerced into signing the contract under duress.”
In a discussion about workplace harassment, someone might say, “Employees should never be coerced into engaging in inappropriate behavior.”
A person sharing a personal experience might write, “I was coerced by a friend to lend them money, even though I knew I might never get it back.”

9. Tricked

To be “tricked” means to be manipulated or deceived by someone through deceit or deception. The term implies that one has been fooled or made to believe something that is not true.

For instance, “She felt foolish for being tricked into buying a counterfeit product.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “People need to be vigilant and aware of the tactics used to trick them out of their money.”
A person sharing their experience might write, “I was tricked into giving my personal information to a fraudulent website, and it resulted in identity theft.”

10. Duped

To be “duped” means to be manipulated or taken advantage of due to one’s gullibility or naivety. The term suggests that one has been easily fooled or persuaded by someone else.

For example, “He was duped into investing in a fraudulent scheme.”
In a discussion about online scams, someone might say, “Many people are duped by phishing emails that appear to be from legitimate sources.”
A person sharing their experience might write, “I was duped by a smooth-talking salesperson into buying a product that turned out to be ineffective.”

11. Deceived

Deceived is a term used to describe the act of tricking or misleading someone. It refers to the act of making someone believe something that is not true.

For example, “He deceived me into thinking he was trustworthy.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Don’t be deceived by offers that seem too good to be true.”
A person might warn others by saying, “Be careful of those who try to deceive you with false promises.”

12. Manipulated

Manipulated is a term used to describe the act of influencing or controlling someone or something in a clever or dishonest way.

For instance, “She manipulated the situation to her advantage.”
In a conversation about relationships, one might say, “He manipulated her feelings to get what he wanted.”
A person discussing politics might argue, “The media often manipulates public opinion through selective reporting.”

13. Misled

Misled is a term used to describe the act of leading someone to believe something that is not true or accurate. It refers to the act of providing false information or guidance.

For example, “He misled me with his false promises.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Don’t be misled by deceptive advertisements.”
A person might warn others by saying, “Be cautious of those who try to mislead you with false information.”

14. Exploited

Exploited is a term used to describe the act of taking unfair advantage of someone or something for personal gain. It refers to the act of using someone or something for one’s own benefit without regard for their well-being.

For instance, “He exploited her vulnerability for his own gain.”
In a conversation about labor rights, one might say, “Workers should not be exploited for cheap labor.”
A person discussing business practices might argue, “Some companies exploit natural resources without considering the environmental impact.”

15. Trapped

Trapped is a term used to describe the act of being caught or confined in a situation from which it is difficult to escape. It refers to the feeling of being stuck or unable to break free.

For example, “She felt trapped in an unhappy marriage.”
In a discussion about manipulation, someone might say, “He made her feel trapped in a toxic relationship.”
A person might share their personal experience by saying, “I felt trapped in a cycle of manipulation and couldn’t see a way out.”

16. Persuaded

This term refers to the act of influencing someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argumentation. It implies that the person was convinced and willingly went along with the persuasion.

For example, “She persuaded her friends to go see the movie she wanted.”
In a political context, someone might say, “The politician persuaded the voters to support his campaign.”
A person discussing a sales pitch might say, “The salesman was very persuasive and convinced me to buy the product.”

17. Controlled

This word implies that someone is being influenced or directed in a way that limits their freedom or autonomy. It suggests that the person is being controlled by another individual or entity.

For instance, “She felt like she was being controlled by her overbearing boss.”
In a relationship context, someone might say, “He was in a controlling relationship where his partner dictated his every move.”
A person discussing a manipulative friend might say, “She always tries to control the group dynamics and make everyone do what she wants.”

18. Influenced

This term indicates that someone’s thoughts, actions, or decisions were affected or shaped by external factors. It suggests that the person was not manipulated forcefully, but rather influenced in a more subtle or indirect manner.

For example, “His parents influenced him to pursue a career in medicine.”
In a fashion context, someone might say, “Celebrities often influence people’s clothing choices.”
A person discussing the impact of social media might say, “Social media influencers have a significant influence on their followers’ purchasing decisions.”

19. Beguiled

This word implies that someone was tricked or deceived through charm, flattery, or cunning. It suggests that the person was manipulated into believing or doing something against their better judgment.

For instance, “She was beguiled by the smooth-talking con artist and ended up losing all her money.”
In a romantic context, someone might say, “He beguiled her with his sweet words and false promises.”
A person discussing a manipulative salesperson might say, “The salesman beguiled me into buying a product I didn’t really need.”

20. Swayed

This term indicates that someone’s opinions, beliefs, or decisions were changed or affected by external factors. It suggests that the person was not necessarily manipulated, but rather influenced to see things from a different perspective.

For example, “His speech swayed the audience to support his proposed policy.”
In a political context, someone might say, “The debate swayed undecided voters to lean towards a particular candidate.”
A person discussing the power of advertising might say, “Effective advertising can sway consumers’ purchasing decisions.”

21. Worked

This term refers to being deceived or tricked by someone. It implies that the person has been manipulated or taken advantage of in some way.

For example, “I can’t believe I fell for his lies. I got worked by that con artist.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Don’t get worked by those fake investment schemes.”
A person reflecting on a past relationship might say, “I was completely worked by my ex. They manipulated me at every turn.”

22. Twisted

To twist someone means to manipulate or deceive them for personal gain or advantage. It implies a level of cunning and deceitfulness in the manipulation.

For instance, “He twisted the truth to make himself look innocent.”
In a conversation about politics, someone might say, “Politicians often twist facts to suit their own agenda.”
A person discussing a manipulative boss might say, “My boss is always twisting the rules to benefit themselves.”

23. Scammed

Being scammed means being tricked or deceived by someone, often for financial gain. It implies that the person has been manipulated into giving away their money or personal information.

For example, “I got scammed by an online seller who never delivered the product.”
In a discussion about online security, someone might warn, “Be careful not to get scammed by phishing emails.”
A person sharing their experience might say, “I was scammed by a fake charity that took my donation and disappeared.”

24. Fooled

To be fooled means to be deceived or tricked by someone, often through the use of cunning or clever tactics. It implies that the person has been manipulated into believing something that is not true.

For instance, “I thought he was being genuine, but he fooled me with his lies.”
In a conversation about pranks, someone might say, “He fooled me into thinking there was a spider on my shoulder.”
A person reflecting on a past relationship might say, “I can’t believe I was fooled by their promises of change.”

25. Maneuvered

This term refers to being controlled or manipulated by someone, often through strategic or calculated actions. It implies that the person has been maneuvered into a certain position or situation.

For example, “He maneuvered me into taking on more work than I could handle.”
In a discussion about power dynamics, someone might say, “She maneuvered her way to the top by stepping on others.”
A person reflecting on a toxic friendship might say, “I felt like I was constantly being maneuvered by their manipulative tactics.”

26. Gaslighted

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which someone makes another person doubt their own perceptions, memories, or sanity. The term comes from the play and movie “Gas Light” where a husband manipulates his wife into thinking she is going insane.

For example, “He gaslighted his partner by constantly denying things he had said or done.”
In a discussion about emotional abuse, someone might say, “Gaslighting is a common tactic used by abusers to control their victims.”
A person sharing their experience might say, “I realized I was being gaslighted when I started questioning my own reality.”

27. Masterminded

To mastermind something means to plan, organize, or control it with great skill and intelligence. It implies being the brains behind a scheme or operation.

For instance, “He masterminded the elaborate heist, carefully planning every detail.”
In a discussion about a successful business venture, someone might say, “She masterminded the company’s expansion into international markets.”
A person describing a political campaign might say, “The candidate’s campaign manager masterminded their victory through strategic messaging and voter targeting.”

28. Orchestrated

To orchestrate something means to carefully plan, arrange, and coordinate various elements or actions in order to achieve a desired result.

For example, “The event was beautifully orchestrated, with each performance seamlessly flowing into the next.”
In a discussion about a successful negotiation, someone might say, “She orchestrated the deal, bringing together multiple parties and finding a mutually beneficial solution.”
A person describing a large-scale event might say, “The festival was meticulously orchestrated, with thousands of attendees and numerous performances happening simultaneously.”

29. Engineered

To engineer something means to design, create, or construct it with skill and precision. It implies a high level of technical expertise and careful planning.

For instance, “He engineered a solution to the complex problem, using innovative technology.”
In a discussion about a groundbreaking invention, someone might say, “The engineer engineered a revolutionary device that changed the industry.”
A person describing a successful project might say, “They engineered the construction project, ensuring it was completed on time and within budget.”

30. Puppeteered

To puppeteer someone means to control or manipulate them as if they were a puppet on strings. It implies being in complete control of someone’s actions or decisions.

For example, “He puppeteered his employees, making all the decisions and leaving them with no autonomy.”
In a discussion about a toxic relationship, someone might say, “She felt like she was being puppeteered, with her partner dictating every aspect of her life.”
A person describing a situation of manipulation might say, “The cult leader puppeteered his followers, using psychological tactics to maintain control over them.”

31. Guided

To guide someone means to influence or direct their actions or decisions. The term “guided” is often used to describe someone who has been influenced or manipulated in a certain way.

For example, “The politician guided the public opinion through his speeches.”
In a discussion about marketing tactics, one might say, “Advertisements are designed to guide consumers towards certain products.”
A person discussing personal growth might reflect, “I feel like I’ve been guided by my mentors throughout my career.”

32. Directed

To direct someone means to control or manage their actions or behavior. When someone is directed, it implies that they are being manipulated or influenced in a specific way.

For instance, “The director skillfully directed the actors to bring out the emotions in the scene.”
In a conversation about leadership, someone might say, “A good leader directs their team towards success.”
A person discussing a relationship might express, “I felt like I was being directed by my partner, and it wasn’t a healthy dynamic.”

33. Molded

To mold someone means to shape or influence their beliefs, opinions, or behavior. When someone is molded, it suggests that they have been manipulated or guided in a particular direction.

For example, “The teacher molded the minds of her students through her inspiring lessons.”
In a discussion about societal norms, one might say, “Our upbringing molds our values and attitudes.”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “My experiences have molded me into the person I am today.”

34. Shaped

To shape someone means to mold or influence their character, behavior, or beliefs. When someone is shaped, it implies that they have been manipulated or guided in a specific way.

For instance, “The environment we grow up in shapes our perspectives on life.”
In a conversation about social media, someone might say, “Our online interactions shape our digital identity.”
A person discussing personal development might express, “I believe that our choices shape our destiny.”

35. Formed

To form someone means to create or shape their character, behavior, or beliefs. When someone is formed, it suggests that they have been manipulated or guided in a particular way.

For example, “The mentor formed a strong bond with their mentee and helped them grow.”
In a discussion about education, one might say, “Schools play a crucial role in forming the minds of young individuals.”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “My childhood experiences formed the foundation of my personality.”

36. Dictated

This term refers to being controlled or influenced by someone in a forceful or authoritative manner. It implies that the person being dictated to has no choice or say in the matter.

For example, “The dictator dictated every aspect of the country’s policies.”
In a workplace setting, a boss might say, “I dictate how things are done around here.”
In a relationship, one partner might complain, “He always dictates where we go and what we do.”

37. Commanded

To command means to give orders or instructions with authority. It implies a position of power and control over others.

For instance, “The general commanded his troops to advance.”
In a military setting, a drill sergeant might say, “I command you to drop and give me 20 push-ups.”
In a household, a parent might command their child, “Go clean your room right now!”

38. Governed

Being governed means being controlled or regulated by a governing body or authority. It implies that there are rules and regulations in place that dictate behavior or actions.

For example, “The country is governed by a democratically elected president.”
In a discussion about a company’s policies, one might say, “The HR department governs employee behavior.”
A person might complain, “I feel like my life is governed by societal expectations.”

39. Regulated

To regulate means to control or maintain order. It implies the establishment of rules or guidelines to ensure proper behavior or functioning.

For instance, “The government regulates the sale of firearms.”
In a discussion about a specific industry, one might say, “The FDA regulates the production and sale of pharmaceuticals.”
A person might comment, “I appreciate having traffic lights to regulate the flow of traffic.”

40. Supervised

To supervise means to oversee or watch over others to ensure they are following rules or completing tasks correctly. It implies a position of authority and responsibility.

For example, “The teacher supervised the students during the exam.”
In a workplace, a manager might say, “I will be supervising your work to ensure quality.”
A parent might tell their child, “I will be supervising your playdate to make sure everyone is safe.”

41. Managed

This term refers to the act of controlling or overseeing a situation or task. It can imply manipulation or handling of a situation in a skillful or effective way.

For example, a team leader might say, “I managed the project and ensured smooth execution.”
In a discussion about difficult situations, someone might say, “I managed to navigate through the challenges and come out on top.”
A person reflecting on their career might say, “I managed multiple teams and projects throughout my career.”

42. Handled

This term is used to describe the act of dealing with or managing a situation or problem. It can imply manipulation or control over a situation in a competent manner.

For instance, a customer service representative might say, “I handled a difficult customer complaint and resolved the issue.”
In a discussion about challenging tasks, someone might say, “I handled the project with ease and met all the deadlines.”
A person describing their problem-solving skills might say, “I can handle any challenge that comes my way.”

43. Administered

This term refers to the act of directing or managing a task or activity. It can imply manipulation or control over a process or operation.

For example, a supervisor might say, “I administered the training program for new employees.”
In a discussion about leadership, someone might say, “I administered a team of talented individuals and achieved great results.”
A person describing their role in a project might say, “I administered the budget and ensured efficient resource allocation.”

44. Conducted

This term is used to describe the act of carrying out or managing a task or activity. It can imply manipulation or control over a process or operation.

For instance, a researcher might say, “I conducted a study on the effects of sleep deprivation.”
In a discussion about experiments, someone might say, “I conducted a series of tests to gather data.”
A person describing their role in a project might say, “I conducted the market research and analyzed the findings.”

45. Oversaw

This term refers to the act of supervising or managing a task or activity. It can imply manipulation or control over a process or operation.

For example, a project manager might say, “I oversaw the development and implementation of the project.”
In a discussion about team dynamics, someone might say, “I oversaw a team of talented individuals and ensured their success.”
A person describing their role in a company might say, “I oversaw the daily operations and strategic planning.”

46. Ruled

To have complete authority or power over someone or something. “Ruled” is often used to describe situations where someone is manipulating or exerting control over others.

For example, “The dictator ruled the country with an iron fist.”
In a discussion about a toxic relationship, someone might say, “She ruled over him and made all the decisions.”
A person might describe a dominating boss by saying, “He ruled the office and everyone had to follow his orders.”

47. Steered

To direct or influence the course of someone or something. “Steered” is often used to describe situations where someone is subtly manipulating or guiding others towards a desired outcome.

For instance, “The politician steered the conversation towards his own achievements.”
In a discussion about a persuasive speaker, someone might say, “He expertly steered the audience’s opinion with his words.”
A person might describe a manipulative friend by saying, “She always steers the group’s plans to benefit herself.”

48. Led

To be in charge or at the forefront of a group or situation. “Led” is often used to describe situations where someone is manipulating or influencing others by taking a dominant role.

For example, “The CEO led the company to great success.”
In a discussion about a cult leader, someone might say, “He led his followers down a dangerous path.”
A person might describe a charismatic influencer by saying, “She led her followers to believe in her cause.”

49. Cheated

To act dishonestly or unfairly in order to gain an advantage. “Cheated” is often used to describe situations where someone is manipulating or tricking others for personal gain.

For instance, “He cheated on his partner and broke their trust.”
In a discussion about a rigged game, someone might say, “The casino cheated its customers out of their money.”
A person might describe a scam artist by saying, “He cheated innocent people out of their life savings.”

50. Misguided

To give someone the wrong idea or information, leading them to make incorrect decisions or take inappropriate actions. “Misguided” is often used to describe situations where someone is manipulating or influencing others by providing false guidance.

For example, “The cult leader misguided his followers with false promises.”
In a discussion about a misleading advertisement, someone might say, “The company misguided consumers into buying their faulty product.”
A person might describe a manipulative mentor by saying, “He misguided his protege with harmful advice.”

51. Misused

This term refers to being deceived or tricked into believing something that is not true. It implies that someone has been manipulated or taken advantage of.

For instance, a person might say, “I can’t believe I fell for their lies. I feel so bamboozled.”
In a conversation about scams, someone might warn, “Watch out for fake online advertisements. They’re designed to bamboozle you.”
A person reflecting on a past relationship might say, “I was completely bamboozled by their sweet words and false promises.”