Definition

Verb: - To exert influence or control over a situation or people, especially in a clever, secretive, or indirect way, often by using personal connections or behind-the-scenes power.

Usage and Examples

This verb describes the act of using one's influence, often through unofficial channels or personal networks, to achieve a desired outcome.

• Example 1:
• Example 2:
• Example 3:

Advanced Usage

• "pulling the wires": This gerund or continuous form emphasizes the ongoing action of exerting influence.
  • The success of the project was due to her pulling the wires at the highest levels.

Variants and Related Words

• Wire-pulling (noun): The act or practice of exerting secret influence.
  • The contract was awarded through political wire-pulling.

Synonyms

• Manipulate: To control or influence skillfully, often unfairly.
• Pull strings: To use one's influence, especially secretly (a very close synonym).
• Engineer: To arrange or plan skillfully and often deviously.

Related Idioms

• "Pull strings": This idiom is nearly identical in meaning and usage to "pull wires."
  • His father pulled strings to get him an interview.

Verb

1. influence or control shrewdly or deviously
   • He manipulated public opinion in his favor