Godan verb, transitive verb

  1. to operate (e.g. a machine), to handle, to manage, to control, to maneuver, to steer.
  2. to have a good command of (a language), to play proficiently (of a musical instrument).
  3. to work (a puppet), to pull the strings of a puppet.
  4. to manipulate (a person, public opinion, etc.), to pull the strings, to control from the shadows, to mastermind.

Variations

Pronunciation Kanji Kana Is Common
 
操る あやつる

Contained Kanji Breakdown

maneuver, manipulate, operate
ソウ みさお あやつ.る (6th, N1)
hand, hand radical (no. 64)
シュ
chirping of birds
ソウ ショウ さわ.ぐ
goods, refinement, dignity
ヒン しな ホン (3rd, N4)
mouth
くち コウ ク (1st, N4)
accuse, argue, dispute
tree, wood
き モク こ- (1st, N5)