Tampering: meaning, definitions and examples

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tampering

 

[ˈtæmpərɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

criminal activity

To tamper means to interfere with something in order to cause damage, make unauthorized alterations, or distort the original state. It often involves manipulating or meddling with evidence, machinery, documents, or data.

Synonyms

alter, interfere, manipulate, meddle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tampering

Usually involves unauthorized or harmful alteration, often with a negative or malicious intent.

  • The police are investigating the tampering of evidence.
  • Tampering with the brakes of a car can lead to serious accidents.
interfere

Involves getting in the way or meddling in something, often in a manner that is unhelpful or unwelcome.

  • Please don't interfere with my work.
  • He always tries to interfere in her personal life.
manipulate

Involves controlling or influencing someone or something, often in a deceptive or unfair way. Has a negative connotation.

  • He tried to manipulate the stock market for his own gain.
  • She felt he was trying to manipulate her emotions.
meddle

Involves intruding or involving oneself in matters that are not one's concern, typically with a negative connotation.

  • Don't meddle in other people's affairs.
  • He has a habit of meddling where he shouldn't.
alter

Refers to making small changes or modifications, usually in a neutral or positive sense.

  • She decided to alter her dress to fit better.
  • The chef altered the recipe to make it healthier.

Examples of usage

  • Someone has been tampering with the security cameras in the building.
  • The tampering of the election results led to widespread controversy.
  • If you are caught tampering with the evidence, you will face serious consequences.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • Tampering with evidence is a serious crime, as it can alter the outcome of court cases.
  • Laws against tampering are designed to protect the integrity of processes like elections and investigations.
  • In many places, tampering with documents can lead to severe penalties, including fines or imprisonment.

Technology

  • In the digital world, tampering often refers to unauthorized alterations to software or files, which can lead to data breaches.
  • Cybersecurity measures are in place to prevent data tampering, helping keep personal and sensitive information safe.
  • Firmware tampering can change how devices operate, leading to potentially dangerous outcomes, especially in vehicles.

Psychology

  • The act of tampering can lead to distrust between individuals, especially if one party feels deceived.
  • People often tamper with information in attempts to manipulate others' perceptions or actions.
  • The reasons behind tampering may include a desire for control, seeking advantage, or even curiosity.

Popular Culture

  • Tampering is a common theme in many crime novels and movies, where characters either alter evidence or manipulate situations.
  • In social media, tampering with images (like filters) is often used to project a desired self-image.
  • TV shows often explore the consequences of tampering in plots where the truth is obscured, creating drama and tension.

Education

  • In experiments, tampering with data can lead to incorrect conclusions, stressing the importance of honest reporting.
  • Educational integrity policies often include clauses against tampering with assignments or exam papers.
  • Students are taught about the ethics of tampering, especially in science and research, to maintain trustworthiness in findings.

Translations

Translations of the word "tampering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adulteração

🇮🇳 छेड़छाड़

🇩🇪 Manipulation

🇮🇩 pemalsuan

🇺🇦 підробка

🇵🇱 manipulacja

🇯🇵 改ざん

🇫🇷 manipulation

🇪🇸 manipulación

🇹🇷 manipülasyon

🇰🇷 조작

🇸🇦 تلاعب

🇨🇿 manipulace

🇸🇰 manipulácia

🇨🇳 篡改

🇸🇮 manipulacija

🇮🇸 fölsun

🇰🇿 жалғандық

🇬🇪 მანიპულაცია

🇦🇿 manipulyasiya

🇲🇽 manipulación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,590, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.