WordValestraw man
a distorted version of an argument, easy to attack
In more detail
(idiom) a weak argument or fake version of something created deliberately so it can be easily defeated or criticized, instead of addressing the real issue or strong version of something
Examples
- Saying that people who support recycling want to ban all plastic is a straw man argument — most recyclers don't want that.
How to use straw man
Used primarily in argumentation, logic, and debate to describe a rhetorical technique where someone misrepresents or oversimplifies an opponent's position to make it easier to refute. It typically appears in academic, political, or critical discussions, and conveys disapproval or skepticism of the argument being discussed.
Common phrases
- straw man argument
- straw man fallacy
- create a straw man
- knock down a straw man
- attack a straw man
- straw man version
Synonyms
false equivalence · red herring · weak argument · fabrication · sham
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use 'straw man' to mean any weak or false argument rather than specifically an intentionally misrepresented version of someone else's actual position.
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