scarecrow [scarecrows](effigy fixed to a pole in a field to deter birds from eating crops or seeds planted there) noun [UK: ˈskeə.krəʊ] [US: ˈskærkro.ʊ]
straw man [straw men](insubstantial or weakly supported concept, idea, endeavor or argument) noun [UK: strɔː mæn] [US: ˈstrɒ ˈmæn]