What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
manipulate
Example
She manipulated the clay into a beautiful sculpture. [manipulated: verb]
Example
He tried to manipulate the situation to his advantage. [manipulate: verb]
Example
The scientist manipulated the data to support her hypothesis. [manipulated: verb]
control
Example
He was able to control the car despite the slippery road. [control: verb]
Example
The government has strict control over the media. [control: noun]
Example
She tried to control her emotions during the interview. [control: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Control is more commonly used than manipulate in everyday language. Control is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while manipulate is less common and often associated with negative connotations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between manipulate and control?
Both manipulate and control can be used in formal and informal contexts, but control is generally considered more formal and authoritative, while manipulate is more informal and may have negative connotations in formal settings.