Top 72 Slang For Manipulation – Meaning & Usage

Manipulation is a subtle art that can be found in various aspects of our lives, from relationships to the workplace. Curious about the slang terms used to describe these manipulative tactics? Look no further! We’ve gathered the top slang for manipulation that you need to know to navigate these tricky situations with confidence. Stay ahead of the game and arm yourself with this essential knowledge.

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1. Con

This refers to a person who deceives or tricks others for personal gain. A con artist often uses charm, persuasion, and manipulation to exploit their victims.

For example, “The con artist convinced the elderly woman to give him her life savings.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Watch out for con artists posing as IRS agents.”
A person might warn their friend, “Don’t fall for that con artist’s sob story.”

2. Gaslight

To gaslight someone means to manipulate their perception of reality in order to make them doubt their own memory, perception, or sanity. This can involve denying or distorting facts, making the person question their own experiences, or invalidating their feelings.

For instance, “He would constantly gaslight his partner by insisting that events didn’t happen the way they remembered.”
In a conversation about toxic relationships, someone might share, “My ex used to gaslight me to make me doubt my own emotions.”
A person might seek advice by asking, “How do I deal with a boss who constantly gaslights me?”

3. Snow

To “snow” someone means to deceive or mislead them, often by using charm or flattery. It is a form of manipulation where the person tries to convince others of something that may not be true or exaggerates their abilities or qualities.

For example, “He tried to snow the hiring manager with his impressive resume, but they saw through his lies.”
In a discussion about persuasion techniques, someone might mention, “Using charm and flattery can sometimes help you snow people into agreeing with you.”
A person might say, “I can see right through your snow job. I know you’re just trying to manipulate me.”

4. String along

To string someone along means to deceive or manipulate them by giving false hope or making them believe that there is a chance for a romantic or personal relationship. It involves keeping someone interested or invested in a situation or relationship without any real intention of commitment.

For instance, “She knew he wasn’t serious about their relationship, but he continued to string her along.”
In a conversation about dating, someone might share, “I’ve been stringing this person along because I don’t want to hurt their feelings.”
A person might ask for advice, “How do I confront someone who has been stringing me along?”

5. Sweet talk

To sweet talk someone means to use flattering or persuasive language to manipulate them or get what you want. It involves using charm, compliments, or smooth-talking to influence someone’s thoughts, feelings, or actions.

For example, “He sweet talked his way into getting a discount on the car.”
In a discussion about sales techniques, someone might mention, “Sweet talking customers can help close a deal.”
A person might say, “Don’t be fooled by his sweet talk. He’s just trying to manipulate you.”

6. Work a number on

This phrase means to exert influence or control over someone in a manipulative or deceitful way. It implies that the person is being tricked or fooled.

For example, “He really worked a number on her, convincing her to invest all her savings.”
In a discussion about psychological manipulation, someone might say, “Certain individuals have a talent for working a number on others.”
Another might warn, “Be careful who you trust, some people will try to work a number on you.”

7. Play mind games

This phrase refers to the act of intentionally manipulating someone’s thoughts or emotions for personal gain or control. It involves psychological tactics to confuse or manipulate the other person.

For instance, “She’s always playing mind games with her ex, trying to make him jealous.”
In a conversation about toxic relationships, someone might say, “One of the signs of an abusive partner is their tendency to play mind games.”
Another might advise, “Don’t let anyone play mind games with you, stand up for yourself.”

8. Pull a fast one

This phrase means to deceive or trick someone in a cunning or sneaky way. It implies that the person being deceived is caught off guard or taken by surprise.

For example, “He pulled a fast one on his friend by pretending to be someone else.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Scammers are always trying to pull a fast one on unsuspecting victims.”
Another might warn, “Be careful not to let anyone pull a fast one on you, always double-check before trusting.”

9. Butter up

This phrase means to use excessive flattery or compliments to manipulate or influence someone. It implies that the person being buttered up may be more easily swayed or persuaded.

For instance, “She buttered up her boss to get a promotion.”
In a conversation about office politics, someone might say, “People often butter up their superiors to gain favor.”
Another might advise, “Don’t fall for someone who is just buttering you up, make sure their intentions are genuine.”

10. Lead astray

This phrase means to intentionally misguide or manipulate someone into making the wrong decisions or taking the wrong path. It implies that the person being led astray is being misled or deceived.

For example, “He led his friend astray by convincing him to skip class.”
In a discussion about peer pressure, someone might say, “Teenagers are often led astray by their peers.”
Another might caution, “Be careful not to let anyone lead you astray, trust your instincts and make your own choices.”

11. Put one over on

This phrase means to successfully deceive or trick someone in order to gain an advantage or achieve a desired outcome.

For example, “He thought he could put one over on me, but I saw through his lies.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Scammers are always trying to put one over on unsuspecting victims.”
A person might warn their friend, “Be careful, that salesperson is known for trying to put one over on customers.”

12. Run a game on

This phrase refers to manipulating or deceiving someone for personal gain or advantage.

For instance, “He ran a game on his business partners and made off with all the profits.”
In a conversation about con artists, someone might say, “They’re experts at running a game on vulnerable individuals.”
A person might caution their friend, “Don’t let them run a game on you, they’re just trying to take advantage of your kindness.”

13. Twist someone’s arm

This phrase means to use persuasion or pressure to convince someone to do something they may not initially want to do.

For example, “I had to twist his arm to get him to come to the party.”
In a discussion about negotiations, someone might say, “Sometimes you have to twist someone’s arm to get them to agree to a deal.”
A person might advise their friend, “If you really want that promotion, you might have to twist your boss’s arm a little.”

14. Pull the wool over someone’s eyes

This phrase means to deceive or trick someone by concealing the truth or manipulating their perception of a situation.

For instance, “He pulled the wool over her eyes with his smooth talking.”
In a conversation about scams, someone might say, “Scammers are experts at pulling the wool over unsuspecting victims.”
A person might warn their friend, “Don’t let them pull the wool over your eyes, they’re just trying to take advantage of you.”

15. Talk into

This phrase means to persuade or convince someone to do something they may not initially want to do.

For example, “She talked me into going to the concert even though I wasn’t sure about it.”
In a discussion about peer pressure, someone might say, “They can be very persuasive and talk others into doing things they might not want to do.”
A person might advise their friend, “Don’t let them talk you into doing something you’re not comfortable with.”

16. Sucker into

To “sucker into” means to manipulate or deceive someone into doing or believing something they wouldn’t normally do or believe.

For example, “He tried to sucker me into investing in his shady business.”
A person might say, “Don’t let them sucker you into buying something you don’t need.”
In a discussion about online scams, someone might warn, “Be careful not to get suckered into giving out your personal information.”

17. Set up

To “set up” means to arrange a situation or manipulate events in a way that benefits oneself or puts someone else at a disadvantage.

For instance, “He set up the meeting to make himself look good.”
In a discussion about a prank, someone might say, “They set me up to embarrass me in front of everyone.”
A person might warn, “Be careful, they’re trying to set you up to take the blame.”

18. Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a form of manipulation where someone subtly or overtly manipulates another person into questioning their own sanity or perception of reality.

For example, “He gaslighted her by constantly denying things he had said or done.”
In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might say, “Gaslighting is a common tactic used by emotional abusers.”
A person might warn, “Don’t let them gaslight you into thinking you’re the one at fault.”

19. Brainwashing

Brainwashing refers to the process of manipulating someone’s thoughts, beliefs, or attitudes through persistent and intensive indoctrination or conditioning.

For instance, “The cult used brainwashing techniques to control its members.”
In a discussion about propaganda, someone might say, “The government used brainwashing to manipulate public opinion.”
A person might warn, “Watch out for groups that try to brainwash you into joining them.”

20. Mind games

Mind games refer to psychological tactics used to manipulate or control someone’s thoughts, emotions, or behavior.

For example, “She played mind games with him to keep him on edge.”
In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might say, “Mind games are a sign of emotional abuse.”
A person might warn, “Don’t let them play mind games with you, it’s not healthy.”

21. Con artist

A con artist is someone who deceives or tricks others for personal gain, often through elaborate schemes or scams. They manipulate people’s trust and emotions to exploit them financially or otherwise.

For example, “He pretended to be a wealthy businessman and convinced people to invest in his fake company. He turned out to be a con artist.”
In a discussion about fraud, someone might say, “Con artists often target vulnerable individuals who are desperate for a quick solution.”
A victim of a con artist might share their experience, “I fell for a con artist’s sob story and lost all my savings.”

22. Smooth operator

A smooth operator is someone who is skilled at manipulating others, often through charm and charisma. They know how to say and do the right things to get what they want, whether it’s personal or professional.

For instance, “He always knows the perfect thing to say to win people over. He’s a smooth operator.”
In a conversation about dating, someone might say, “Watch out for smooth operators who only want to manipulate you.”
A person discussing workplace dynamics might mention, “Smooth operators often excel in sales or leadership positions due to their ability to influence others.”

23. Hustler

A hustler is someone who is determined and resourceful in achieving their goals, often through unconventional or questionable means. They are skilled at manipulating situations and people to their advantage.

For example, “He’s a hustler who knows how to turn any opportunity into a profitable venture.”
In a discussion about entrepreneurship, someone might say, “Successful business owners often have a hustler mentality.”
A person describing their career path might say, “I started as a hustler, taking on odd jobs and making connections to get ahead.”

24. Snake oil salesman

A snake oil salesman is someone who promotes or sells fraudulent or ineffective products or services. They use manipulative tactics and false claims to convince people to buy their products, often preying on people’s desire for a miracle cure or solution.

For instance, “He claimed his herbal supplements could cure any ailment, but he was just a snake oil salesman.”
In a discussion about consumer protection, someone might say, “Beware of snake oil salesmen who promise unrealistic results.”
A victim of a snake oil salesman might share their story, “I wasted so much money on useless products sold by a snake oil salesman.”

25. Conning

Conning refers to the act of deceiving or tricking someone, often for personal gain. It involves manipulating others through lies, false promises, or other dishonest tactics.

For example, “He’s a master at conning people out of their money.”
In a conversation about scams, someone might say, “Conning is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences for the victims.”
A person discussing trust issues might mention, “Being a victim of conning can make it difficult to trust others.”

26. Tricking

Tricking refers to deceiving someone through clever or cunning methods. It involves using tactics or strategies to manipulate someone’s perception or actions for personal gain.

For example, a con artist might trick someone into giving them money by pretending to be a charity organization.
In a prank, someone might trick their friend into believing something that is not true.
A magician might trick the audience into believing they have made something disappear through sleight of hand.

27. Swindling

Swindling refers to deceiving or cheating someone out of money or goods. It involves using dishonest or fraudulent tactics to manipulate someone into giving up their valuables or resources.

For instance, a scammer might swindle unsuspecting victims by promising them unrealistic returns on investments.
In a Ponzi scheme, the mastermind swindles investors by using money from new investors to pay off old investors.
A dishonest salesperson might swindle a customer by selling them a counterfeit product at a high price.

28. Persuasion

Persuasion refers to influencing someone’s thoughts, beliefs, or actions. It involves presenting arguments, evidence, or emotional appeals to manipulate someone’s decision-making process.

For example, a salesperson might use persuasive techniques to convince a customer to buy a product.
In a political campaign, candidates use persuasion to sway voters to support them.
A parent might use persuasion to convince their child to do their homework or chores.

29. Exploitation

Exploitation refers to taking advantage of someone for personal gain. It involves using someone’s vulnerabilities, weaknesses, or resources to manipulate them for one’s own benefit.

For instance, a manipulative partner might exploit their significant other’s insecurities to control and manipulate them.
In the workplace, an employer might exploit their employees by paying them less than fair wages for their labor.
A scammer might exploit the trust of elderly individuals to steal their life savings.

30. Machiavellian

Machiavellian refers to using cunning and deceitful tactics for personal gain. It is derived from the political philosophy of Niccolò Machiavelli, who advocated for the use of manipulation and deception in politics.

For example, a Machiavellian politician might use manipulation to gain power and maintain control over their constituents.
In a competitive business environment, a Machiavellian entrepreneur might use unethical tactics to eliminate competitors and dominate the market.
A manipulative individual might employ Machiavellian strategies to manipulate others and achieve their personal goals.

31. Pull strings

This phrase refers to exerting influence or manipulating a situation or person without their knowledge or awareness. It often involves using one’s connections or power to achieve a desired outcome.

For example, “He was able to pull strings and get his friend a job at the company.”
In a political context, one might say, “The lobbyist was able to pull strings and get the bill passed.”
A person discussing someone’s success might comment, “It’s clear that she has been pulling strings to get to where she is now.”

32. Sucker punch

This term describes a surprise attack or action that catches someone off guard, often taking advantage of their vulnerability or unsuspecting nature.

For instance, “He didn’t see it coming – it was a real sucker punch.”
In a metaphorical sense, one might say, “That unexpected bill was a real sucker punch to my finances.”
A person discussing a deceitful act might say, “He pulled a sucker punch by spreading false rumors about her.”

33. Put words in someone’s mouth

This phrase means to ascribe words or opinions to someone that they did not actually say or hold. It is a form of manipulation that can be used to misrepresent or deceive.

For example, “She was angry because he was putting words in her mouth.”
In a discussion about miscommunication, one might say, “It’s important not to put words in someone’s mouth – always clarify their actual position.”
A person discussing manipulation tactics might warn, “Be aware of people who try to put words in your mouth to control the narrative.”

34. Plant ideas

This phrase refers to the act of subtly or covertly implanting ideas or suggestions into someone’s mind. It is a form of manipulation that aims to influence their thoughts, beliefs, or actions.

For instance, “He planted the idea in her mind that she should quit her job.”
In a discussion about persuasive techniques, one might say, “Advertisers often use subtle cues to plant ideas in consumers’ minds.”
A person discussing mind control might comment, “Cult leaders often use manipulative tactics to plant ideas and control their followers.”

35. Gas up

This term means to excessively praise or flatter someone, often to manipulate or gain favor with them. It involves boosting their ego or confidence through exaggerated compliments.

For example, “He’s always gassing up his friends to get them to do what he wants.”
In a discussion about insincere compliments, one might say, “Don’t just gas me up – give me honest feedback.”
A person discussing manipulation tactics might warn, “Be wary of people who constantly gas you up – they may have ulterior motives.”

36. Fake out

To trick or deceive someone by pretending or feigning something. This can involve misleading or giving false impressions to manipulate a situation or a person.

For example, “He faked out his opponent with a sudden change in direction.”
In a prank, someone might say, “I’m going to fake out my friend by pretending to be someone else.”
A person might use a fake out to avoid a confrontation by saying, “I faked out my boss by pretending to be sick.”

37. Snow someone under

To inundate or overwhelm someone with a large amount of information or tasks in order to confuse or manipulate them. This can be done intentionally to control or distract someone.

For instance, “The boss snowed me under with a mountain of paperwork.”
In a sales pitch, someone might say, “Don’t let them snow you under with technical jargon.”
A student might complain, “My teacher always snows us under with assignments.”

38. Twist the truth

To alter or manipulate the truth or facts in order to deceive or mislead someone. This can involve adding or omitting information to create a false narrative or to manipulate a situation.

For example, “The politician twisted the truth to make themselves look better.”
In a court case, a lawyer might accuse the opposing side of twisting the truth.
A person might say, “Don’t let them twist the truth, stick to the facts.”

39. Guilt-tripping

To manipulate someone’s emotions, particularly by making them feel guilty or responsible for a certain outcome. This can involve using guilt as a tool to control or influence someone’s behavior.

For instance, “She guilt-tripped her friend into lending her money.”
In a relationship, someone might say, “Stop guilt-tripping me every time I want to hang out with my friends.”
A parent might guilt-trip their child by saying, “After everything I’ve done for you, you can’t even help me with this?”

40. Playing mind tricks

To manipulate or influence someone’s thoughts, beliefs, or perceptions by using psychological tactics or strategies. This can involve subtle manipulation or mind games to control or deceive someone.

For example, “He’s always playing mind tricks to get what he wants.”
In a negotiation, someone might employ mind tricks to sway the other party’s decision.
A person might say, “I can’t stand it when people try to play mind tricks on me.”

41. Pulling strings

This phrase refers to using one’s power or connections to manipulate a situation or people to achieve a desired outcome.

For example, “He was able to get the job because he knew someone in the company and was pulling some strings.”
In a political context, one might say, “The senator is known for pulling strings behind the scenes to get bills passed.”
A person discussing a promotion might say, “I need to start pulling some strings if I want to move up in this company.”

42. Twisting the truth

This phrase means to manipulate or distort the truth in order to deceive or mislead others.

For instance, “She twisted the truth to make herself look innocent in the situation.”
In a courtroom drama, a lawyer might accuse the opposing counsel of twisting the truth to sway the jury.
A person discussing a dishonest politician might say, “He’s a master at twisting the truth to fit his narrative.”

43. Smooth-talking

This term refers to someone who is skilled at using persuasive language and charm to manipulate others.

For example, “He was able to convince her to lend him money with his smooth-talking.”
In a dating context, one might say, “He’s a smooth-talker, always saying the right things to win people over.”
A person discussing a salesperson might say, “Watch out for those smooth-talkers who try to pressure you into buying something you don’t need.”

44. Scheming

This word describes the act of devising a secret or underhanded plan to achieve a specific goal, often through manipulation.

For instance, “She was always scheming to get ahead in her career.”
In a movie about a heist, one might say, “The characters spend the entire film scheming and plotting their next move.”
A person discussing a manipulative friend might say, “I can’t trust her anymore, she’s always scheming behind my back.”

45. Conniving

This term describes someone who is crafty and manipulative, often in a deceitful or underhanded way.

For example, “He’s a conniving businessman who always finds a way to come out on top.”
In a story about a betrayal, one might say, “The conniving character plotted to ruin the protagonist’s life.”
A person discussing a coworker might say, “She’s conniving and will do anything to get ahead in the company.”

46. Covert manipulation

This term refers to the act of manipulating someone without their knowledge or awareness. It involves subtle tactics and hidden agendas to influence someone’s thoughts, feelings, or actions.

For example, a manipulative person might use covert manipulation to make someone feel guilty for not doing what they want.
In a toxic relationship, one partner might engage in covert manipulation to control the other’s behavior.
A manipulative boss might use covert manipulation to manipulate their employees into working longer hours.

47. Psychological warfare

This term refers to the use of psychological tactics and strategies to manipulate and control someone’s thoughts, emotions, and behavior. It often involves the deliberate manipulation of information and the exploitation of vulnerabilities.

For instance, a country might engage in psychological warfare to weaken the morale of its enemies.
In a personal relationship, psychological warfare might involve gaslighting, manipulation, and mind games.
A manipulative person might use psychological warfare to gain power and control over others.

48. Emotional exploitation

This term refers to the act of using someone’s emotions against them for personal gain or to manipulate their behavior. It involves manipulating someone’s feelings, vulnerabilities, and insecurities to control and influence their actions.

For example, a manipulative partner might use emotional exploitation to make their significant other feel guilty for spending time with friends.
In a workplace setting, emotional exploitation might involve using someone’s fear of losing their job to make them work harder.
A manipulative friend might use emotional exploitation to manipulate their friends into doing things they don’t want to do.

49. Coaxing

This term refers to the act of gently and persistently persuading or manipulating someone to do something or change their behavior. It involves using charm, flattery, and subtle tactics to influence someone’s thoughts or actions.

For instance, a salesperson might use coaxing to convince a customer to make a purchase.
In a social setting, someone might use coaxing to persuade their friends to try something new.
A manipulative person might use coaxing to manipulate someone into doing something they don’t want to do.

50. Beguiling

This term refers to the act of charming and enchanting someone to manipulate or deceive them. It involves using charisma, seduction, and manipulation tactics to gain someone’s trust and control their thoughts or actions.

For example, a con artist might use beguiling techniques to deceive people and scam them out of their money.
In a romantic relationship, someone might use beguiling tactics to manipulate their partner into doing things for them.
A manipulative leader might use beguiling strategies to gain the loyalty and support of their followers.

51. Entrapment

Entrapment refers to the act of luring or manipulating someone into a situation where they are deceived or coerced into doing something they wouldn’t normally do. It often involves setting a trap or creating a scenario that leads the person into a disadvantageous position.

For example, a detective might use entrapment to catch a criminal by posing as a potential buyer of illegal goods.
In a discussion about legal ethics, someone might argue, “Entrapment undermines the fairness of the justice system.”
A person might warn their friend, “Watch out for online scams that use entrapment to steal your personal information.”

52. Misleading

Misleading refers to providing false or inaccurate information with the intention of causing someone to believe something that is not true. It involves presenting information or statements in a way that distorts the truth or creates a false impression.

For instance, a company might use misleading advertising to make their products seem more effective than they actually are.
In a discussion about politics, someone might accuse a politician of using misleading statements to manipulate public opinion.
A person might warn their friend, “Be careful of misleading headlines on social media. Always fact-check before believing something.”

53. Exploitative tactics

Exploitative tactics refer to the use of unfair or unethical methods to take advantage of someone for personal gain. These tactics often involve manipulating someone’s emotions, vulnerabilities, or circumstances to exploit them.

For example, a salesperson might use exploitative tactics to pressure someone into buying a product they don’t need.
In a discussion about workplace dynamics, someone might condemn exploitative tactics used by managers to extract more work from employees without fair compensation.
A person might advise their friend, “Be cautious of individuals who try to manipulate you with exploitative tactics. Trust your instincts and set boundaries.”

54. Calculated manipulation

Calculated manipulation refers to the deliberate and strategic use of tactics to control or influence someone’s thoughts, emotions, or actions. It involves carefully planning and executing actions to achieve a desired outcome, often without the person being aware of the manipulation.

For instance, a politician might use calculated manipulation to sway public opinion in their favor during an election.
In a discussion about relationships, someone might describe a partner who uses calculated manipulation to maintain control over their significant other.
A person might reflect on their past experiences and say, “I’ve learned to recognize the signs of calculated manipulation and protect myself from being manipulated.”

55. Strategic coercion

Strategic coercion refers to the act of using planned and calculated pressure to force or manipulate someone into doing something against their will. It involves using tactics such as threats, intimidation, or blackmail to control the actions or decisions of another person.

For example, a criminal might use strategic coercion to manipulate a witness into changing their testimony.
In a discussion about workplace dynamics, someone might share their experience of being subjected to strategic coercion by a superior.
A person might caution their friend, “Beware of individuals who try to use strategic coercion to make you do something you’re uncomfortable with. Stand your ground and seek support if needed.”

56. Cunning persuasion

This term refers to the art of persuading or convincing someone through clever and crafty tactics. It involves using cunning and manipulation to get someone to agree or comply with your desires.

For example, a salesperson might use cunning persuasion to convince a customer to make a purchase they initially didn’t want.
In a political context, a cunning persuader might use rhetoric and manipulation to sway public opinion in their favor.
Someone might say, “His cunning persuasion tactics made it impossible for me to say no.”

57. Subversive tactics

Subversive tactics are covert or sneaky methods used to undermine or manipulate a situation or person. These techniques are often employed to achieve a hidden agenda or gain an advantage without others realizing.

For instance, a spy might use subversive tactics to gather classified information without being detected.
In a corporate setting, an employee might use subversive tactics to sabotage a coworker’s chances of promotion.
Someone might warn, “Be careful of his subversive tactics, he’s always plotting behind the scenes.”

58. Deceptive maneuvers

Deceptive maneuvers involve using deceit or trickery to manipulate or control a situation or person. These maneuvers are often designed to mislead or confuse others in order to achieve a desired outcome.

For example, a con artist might use deceptive maneuvers to trick people into giving them money.
In a game or sport, a player might use deceptive maneuvers to throw off their opponent and gain an advantage.
Someone might say, “She’s known for her deceptive maneuvers, you can never trust what she says.”

59. Psychological coercion

Psychological coercion refers to the use of psychological tactics to manipulate or control someone’s thoughts, beliefs, or behaviors. It involves exploiting cognitive biases and emotional vulnerabilities to influence and persuade others.

For instance, a cult leader might use psychological coercion to brainwash their followers and make them obedient.
In a relationship, an abusive partner might use psychological coercion to control their partner’s actions and decisions.
A therapist might warn, “Be aware of psychological coercion tactics, they can be highly manipulative.”

60. Emotional coercion

Emotional coercion involves manipulating someone’s emotions to influence their thoughts, decisions, or actions. It often involves using guilt, fear, or other strong emotions to gain control or compliance from others.

For example, a parent might use emotional coercion to make their child feel guilty for not doing what they want.
In a romantic relationship, one partner might use emotional coercion to make the other partner stay in the relationship against their will.
Someone might say, “Her emotional coercion tactics are incredibly manipulative, she always knows how to push your buttons.”

61. Covert persuasion

Covert persuasion refers to the act of subtly and discreetly influencing someone’s thoughts, beliefs, or actions without their awareness. It involves using persuasive techniques in a hidden or secretive manner.

For example, a salesperson might use covert persuasion techniques to convince a customer to make a purchase without them realizing it.
In a political context, covert persuasion could involve manipulating public opinion through subtle messaging or propaganda.
A person might say, “He’s a master of covert persuasion, always able to get people to do what he wants without them even realizing it.”

62. Sly tactics

Sly tactics refer to cunning and crafty strategies used to manipulate or deceive others. These tactics often involve being sneaky or underhanded in order to achieve a desired outcome.

For instance, someone might use sly tactics to manipulate a situation to their advantage, such as spreading rumors or using flattery to gain favor.
In a competitive setting, a person might employ sly tactics to outsmart their opponents and gain an advantage.
A person might comment, “She used some sly tactics to get ahead in her career, always scheming behind the scenes.”

63. Sneaky maneuvers

Sneaky maneuvers refer to deceptive or deceitful actions taken to achieve a specific goal. These actions are often done in a covert or sneaky manner in order to avoid detection or suspicion.

For example, someone might use sneaky maneuvers to manipulate a situation or deceive others, such as secretly changing the terms of a contract.
In a game or sport, a player might use sneaky maneuvers to gain an advantage over their opponents, such as faking an injury to distract the other team.
A person might say, “He pulled off some sneaky maneuvers to get what he wanted, always one step ahead of everyone else.”

64. Shady dealings

Shady dealings refer to questionable or unethical practices used to manipulate or deceive others. These practices are often characterized by their lack of transparency or honesty.

For instance, someone might engage in shady dealings to gain an unfair advantage in a business transaction, such as manipulating financial statements or engaging in insider trading.
In a personal context, shady dealings could involve lying or deceiving others for personal gain or to avoid consequences.
A person might comment, “I don’t trust him, he’s always involved in shady dealings and trying to take advantage of people.”

65. Underhanded tactics

Underhanded tactics refer to devious or deceitful strategies used to manipulate or deceive others. These tactics often involve acting in a sneaky or dishonest manner in order to achieve a desired outcome.

For example, someone might use underhanded tactics to undermine a competitor or gain an advantage in a competitive setting.
In a personal relationship, underhanded tactics could involve manipulating emotions or using guilt to control or influence someone.
A person might say, “She’s known for her underhanded tactics, always finding a way to get what she wants no matter the cost.”

66. Sly moves

Refers to clever and sneaky actions or maneuvers used to manipulate or deceive others. These moves are often done subtly and with finesse.

For example, “He pulled off some sly moves to convince his boss to give him a promotion.”
In a discussion about trickery, someone might say, “She used some sly moves to get out of trouble.”
A character in a movie might be praised for their sly moves, like “He outsmarted the villain with his sly moves.”

67. Devious actions

Refers to actions that are dishonest, deceitful, or intended to harm others. These actions are often done in secret and with malicious intent.

For instance, “He plotted devious actions to sabotage his coworker’s project.”
In a conversation about betrayal, someone might say, “She took devious actions to ruin her friend’s reputation.”
A character in a book might be described as having devious actions, like “He was known for his devious actions to get what he wanted.”

68. Cunning schemes

Refers to clever and strategic plans or plots used to deceive or manipulate others. These schemes are often well-thought-out and involve trickery or manipulation.

For example, “He devised cunning schemes to trick his rivals and gain an advantage.”
In a discussion about manipulation, someone might say, “She came up with cunning schemes to control her partner.”
A character in a TV show might be praised for their cunning schemes, like “He always has a plan with his cunning schemes.”

69. Manipulative ploys

Refers to deceptive and manipulative tactics used to control or influence others. These ploys are often designed to exploit someone’s weaknesses or emotions.

For instance, “He used manipulative ploys to gain the trust of his colleagues.”
In a conversation about toxic relationships, someone might say, “She constantly used manipulative ploys to manipulate her partner.”
A character in a movie might be described as having manipulative ploys, like “He always has a plan with his manipulative ploys.”

70. Coercive tactics

Refers to forceful and intimidating methods used to manipulate or control others. These tactics often involve threats, pressure, or the use of power to make someone comply.

For example, “He employed coercive tactics to make his employees work overtime.”
In a discussion about abusive relationships, someone might say, “She used coercive tactics to control her partner.”
A character in a TV show might be described as using coercive tactics, like “He always gets what he wants with his coercive tactics.”

71. Persuasive strategies

These are various methods and approaches used to persuade or manipulate others to think or act in a certain way. They are often employed in marketing, sales, and negotiation scenarios.

For example, “Using scarcity as a persuasive strategy, the company limited the availability of their product to create a sense of urgency.”
A salesperson might say, “One effective persuasive strategy is to highlight the benefits of the product and how it can solve the customer’s problem.”
In a political campaign, a candidate might employ persuasive strategies such as emotional appeals or testimonials to sway voters.

72. Mind-bending tactics

These are deceptive and cunning methods used to control or influence someone’s thoughts, beliefs, or actions. Mind-bending tactics often involve psychological manipulation and can be used in various contexts, such as relationships, politics, or advertising.

For instance, “The cult leader used mind-bending tactics to manipulate his followers into unquestioning loyalty.”
In a psychological thriller, a character might employ mind-bending tactics to gaslight someone and make them doubt their own sanity.
In a marketing campaign, a company might use mind-bending tactics to create a false sense of urgency or scarcity to drive sales.