manipulator
[/məˈnɪp.jə.leɪ.tər/]
nounmasculinepl: manipulators / manipuladoras (when referring to women)
manipulador
1. A person who controls or influences others in a clever or unscrupulous way
He is a skilled manipulator who always gets what he wants.
Ele é um manipulador hábil que sempre consegue o que quer.
2. A mechanical device or tool used to handle, move, or control objects from a distance
The robot arm manipulator can perform delicate surgical tasks.
O manipulador do braço robótico pode realizar tarefas cirúrgicas delicadas.
3. A person who operates or handles something, especially in industrial or technical contexts
The manipulator adjusted the equipment with precision.
O manipulador ajustou o equipamento com precisão.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, 'manipulator' carries negative connotations when referring to people, suggesting dishonesty or exploitation. However, in technical and industrial settings, it's a neutral, professional term. In Brazil, the term 'malandreiro' or 'enrolador' might be used colloquially to describe someone with cunning manipulation skills, often with a degree of admiration for their cleverness. In NYC culture, 'hustler' or 'con artist' might carry different nuances, sometimes implying street-level cunning rather than psychological manipulation.
NYC Slang
hustler / con artist / smooth operator
Related Idioms & Phrases
puppet master - alguém que controla os outros
pull the strings - manipular ou controlar alguém
behind-the-scenes manipulator - manipulador nos bastidores
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