I think you might mean “manipulating them.” “Manipulating them” means handling, controlling, or influencing them (objects, people, or situations) in a clever or sometimes underhanded way. Here are some synonyms and their analyses:
1. Controlling them
- Meaning: Having power over them and regulating or directing their behavior or course. For example, “The puppeteer was controlling them (the puppets) with strings.”
- Usage difference: “Controlling them” is a more straightforward term that emphasizes the exercise of power and the act of directing. It doesn't necessarily carry the connotation of slyness or dexterity that “manipulating them” can have. It's a more direct way of expressing the idea of having authority over and guiding the entities in question.
2. Maneuvering them
- Meaning: Skillfully guiding or directing them through a series of actions or changes in position. For example, “The coach was maneuvering them (the players) around the field to gain an advantage.”
- Usage difference: “Maneuvering them” implies a more strategic and active approach. It often involves a sequence of movements or actions to achieve a particular goal. In comparison to “manipulating them,” it may focus more on the physical or practical arrangement of the objects or people and less on the psychological or under - the - radar influence.
3. Influencing them
- Meaning: Having an effect on their thoughts, feelings, or actions in a way that may lead to a particular outcome. For example, “The charismatic leader was influencing them (the followers) with his powerful speeches.”
- Usage difference: “Influencing them” is a broader term that can cover a range of methods from persuasion to inspiration. It doesn't imply the same level of direct control as “manipulating them.” While “manipulating” can have a negative or sneaky connotation, “influencing” can be more positive and can involve a more open and ethical process of changing opinions or behaviors.
4. Guiding them
- Meaning: Showing them the way or leading them in a particular direction, usually with a more benevolent intention. For example, “The teacher was guiding them (the students) through the difficult math problem.”
- Usage difference: “Guiding them” has a more positive and helpful connotation. It implies a role of a mentor or a leader who is leading the way for the benefit of the ones being guided. In contrast to “manipulating them,” it doesn't suggest any ulterior motives or sly tactics.
5. Handling them
- Meaning: Dealing with them in a practical way, including physical handling as well as decision - making regarding them. For example, “The zookeeper was handling them (the animals) with care.”
- Usage difference: “Handling them” is a more general term that can refer to the physical act of dealing with objects or the administrative or practical handling of people or situations. It doesn't have the same level of strategic or psychological depth as “manipulating them” and is more about the basic act of taking care of or managing.