Manipulable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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manipulable

[məˈnɪpjʊləbəl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in psychology

Capable of being influenced, controlled, or manipulated by others.

Synonyms

controllable, influencable, malleable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
manipulable	Describes someone or something that can be easily controlled or influenced, often in a negative way. Children can be manipulable if they are not taught to think critically. The company's policies made their employees too manipulable.
influencable	Used when describing someone or something that can be affected or changed by others, usually in both positive and neutral contexts. Teenagers are often very influencable by their peers. His decision was influencable by the recent market trends.
controllable	Refers to something that can be directed or managed, often used in a neutral or positive sense. The remote makes the TV controllable from a distance. The manager believes her team is very controllable.
malleable	Describes something that can be easily shaped or molded, often used for materials or people who are adaptable and flexible. Gold is a very malleable metal, making it easy to craft jewelry. New employees are often more malleable and open to different ways of working.

Examples of usage

He is easily manipulable by those around him.
She felt manipulated by his manipulable behavior.
The vulnerable population is often seen as manipulable by those in power.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

In social contexts, people described as manipulable can be influenced easily, which raises discussions about emotional intelligence.
Research shows that individuals high in agreeableness may be more manipulable due to their tendency to avoid conflict.
Manipulable traits can lead to an imbalance in relationships, showcasing the importance of self-awareness and assertiveness.

Technology

In computer programming, manipulable data refers to data that can be easily altered or processed by software tools.
User-friendly interfaces are designed to be manipulable, allowing users to easily customize options without technical skills.
3D modeling software allows for manipulable objects, enabling creators to modify designs in real-time.

Cultural References

In literature, characters depicted as manipulable often reflect themes of control, power, and vulnerability.
Films often explore the manipulable nature of humans in the context of relationships, highlighting the ethical implications.
Art critics might describe certain art forms or techniques as manipulable when discussing the flexibility of materials used.

Origin of 'manipulable'

Main points about word origin

Derived from the Latin root 'manipulus', meaning 'handful', which relates to using hands to handle something.
First used in English in the late 19th century, it means capable of being handled or influenced.
Shares origins with the word 'manipulate', which implies skillful handling, especially in tricky or deceptive ways.

The word 'manipulable' is derived from the verb 'manipulate', which comes from the Latin word 'manipulus' meaning 'handful' or 'sheaf'. The term 'manipulable' first appeared in the mid-19th century in the field of psychology, referring to the susceptibility of individuals to be influenced or controlled by external factors.