Red herring

"Red herring" is a literary and rhetorical device, typically used in debates, discussions, or arguments, which refers to a distraction or diversion from the main point or issue. It involves introducing an irrelevant or unrelated topic or argument that leads the audience or opponents away from the original topic, thus changing their focus and diluting the significance of the main argument. The purpose of a red herring is to sidetrack the discussion or confuse the audience, often to protect or promote a particular viewpoint. The term originated from the practice of using strong-scented herrings to confuse scent-tracking dogs during hunting.