操る

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 操る is read as あやつる and is a transitive verb meaning to control the movement of something or to use a language or skill expertly.
• Basic usage: A means of control appears in 糸で人形を操る, while skilled command appears in 言語を自在に操る.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Means and object
  • で can mark the means used for control, while を marks the object moved or skillfully employed.
• Difference from 操作する
  • 操作する suits operating a machine or device by its controls; 操る also covers directing an object at will or commanding a skill.