manipuler
handle
Definition & meaning
The French verb "manipuler" is used in several contexts, ranging from physical actions to psychological influence:
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Physical handling: It refers to the act of handling, moving, or operating an object or tool with the hands, often with a certain level of skill or precision. For instance, a chemist might manipulate fragile vials in a lab.
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Psychological influence: In a figurative sense, it means to influence or control someone, often in a deceptive or dishonest way, to serve one's own interests. This implies a power imbalance where the person being manipulated is unaware of the hidden agenda.
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Technical or data management: It can also refer to the act of organizing, modifying, or processing information, data, or equipment to achieve a specific result. In a negative context, this can mean falsifying or "cooking" numbers.
Grammar & Word origin
"Manipuler" is a regular verb belonging to the first group (verbs ending in -er).
The word originates from the Latin "manipulus", meaning "a handful." This is a compound of "manus" (hand) and "plere" (to fill). Historically, a "manipulus" was also a term for a small unit in the Roman army that gathered under a common "handful" of hay tied to a pole as a standard. The transition to the modern meaning began with the idea of handling small objects and eventually expanded to the handling of people or information.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- manier (to handle or use a tool)
- influencer (to influence someone)
- manœuvrer (to maneuver or scheme)
- truquer (to rig, fake, or tamper with)
- traiter (to process or treat)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Tu peux manipuler cet objet avec soin.verb
You can handle this object with care.
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