Verb (5-dan, る, transitive)
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