操あやつる

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

JMdict entry 1400010 · frequency rank 35. Source and licence.