Definition

1. Noun:
   • A weak or sham argument set up to be easily refused: The primary modern meaning refers to a logical fallacy where someone misrepresents an opponent's argument to make it easier to attack.
   • An effigy in the shape of a man to frighten birds away from seeds: A literal, old-fashioned scarecrow.
   • A person used as a cover for some questionable activity: Someone who fronts for or takes blame for another's actions.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Logical Fallacy):
  • The debater created a strawman by exaggerating his opponent's position.
  • Don't attack a strawman; address my actual argument.
• Noun (Scarecrow):
  • The farmer placed a strawman in the field to protect the crops.
• Noun (Front Person):
  • The corrupt official used a strawman to hide his illegal purchases.

Advanced Usage

• "To attack a strawman": To argue against a misrepresented version of an opponent's point.
  • Politicians often attack a strawman instead of engaging with complex issues.
• "A strawman proposal": A preliminary document or plan intended to generate discussion and be revised.
  • The team leader presented a strawman proposal to kickstart the meeting.

Variants and Related Words

• Straw man (noun): The standard two-word spelling variant, identical in meaning.
• Strawman argument (noun phrase): A specific term for the logical fallacy.
• Strawmanning (gerund/noun): The act of creating or using a strawman argument.

Synonyms

• Misrepresentation (for the fallacy).
• Scarecrow (for the effigy).
• Front man, figurehead, nominee (for the person).

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "A man of straw": An older idiom meaning a person of weak character or a sham argument, directly related to the modern term.
  • His defense was a man of straw, easily knocked down.

Noun

1. an effigy in the shape of a man to frighten birds away from seeds
2. a weak or sham argument set up to be easily refuted
3. a person used as a cover for some questionable activity