What defines a 'straw man' argument?

A 'straw man' argument is characterized by the creation of a distorted or oversimplified version of an opponent's argument, which is then easily refuted or dismissed. This tactic shifts the focus away from the actual argument being made and instead targets a weaker, fabricated position that misrepresents the opponent's stance. By addressing this "imaginary opposition," the person employing the straw man tactic can claim victory without having engaged with the complexities of the actual argument.

This understanding clarifies why the choice describing a weak or imaginary opposition is the correct definition of a straw man argument. The other options do not encapsulate this concept effectively: a valid counterargument implies a legitimate engagement with the opponent's point, an emotionally charged statement refers to persuasive language rather than tactics of argumentation, and a well-substantiated claim suggests a strong hold of argument rather than a misrepresentation. Thus, the essence of a straw man argument lies in its deviation from the real issue by fabricating a weaker version to attack.