Bark Up the Wrong Tree: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Bark Up the Wrong Tree” mean?

"Bark Up the Wrong Tree" means to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He's barking up the wrong tree if he thinks he can convince her to change her mind.

Example

I think you're barking up the wrong tree with that investment strategy.

Example

The detective realized he had been barking up the wrong tree when he found new evidence pointing to a different suspect

Is “Bark Up the Wrong Tree” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Bark Up the Wrong Tree” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Bark Up the Wrong Tree” effectively in context?

You can use "Bark Up the Wrong Tree" to indicate that someone is pursuing a mistaken or misguided course of action. It implies that they are looking in the wrong place or directing their efforts towards the wrong person or thing. For example, if a friend is trying to convince someone to change their mind about something, but it's clear that their efforts are in vain, you might say, 'He's barking up the wrong tree if he thinks he can convince her to change her mind.'

• 1. Relationships

  If you think buying her expensive gifts will make her like you, you're barking up the wrong tree.

• 2. Investments

  I think you're barking up the wrong tree with that investment strategy.

• 3. Investigations

  The detective realized he had been barking up the wrong tree when he found new evidence pointing to a different suspect.

Similar phrases to “Bark Up the Wrong Tree”:

Chase one's tail

To engage in futile or unproductive activity

Example

He's been chasing his tail all day, trying to fix the computer.

Beat a dead horse

To continue to pursue a lost cause or argue a point that has already been settled

Example

There's no point in discussing it further. We're just beating a dead horse.

Go down the wrong path

To make a mistake or choose an incorrect course of action

Example

She went down the wrong path by quitting her job without a backup plan.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Bark Up the Wrong Tree” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Bark Up the Wrong Tree" is unknown.

Is “Bark Up the Wrong Tree” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Bark Up the Wrong Tree" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express the idea that someone is pursuing a mistaken or misguided course of action.

What tone does “Bark Up the Wrong Tree” have?

"Bark Up the Wrong Tree" conveys a tone of warning or correction. It's often used to point out someone's error and suggest that they should redirect their efforts or reconsider their approach.

Can “Bark Up the Wrong Tree” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Bark Up the Wrong Tree" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of pursuing a mistaken course of action. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's barking up the wrong tree with that argument.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'You're barking up the wrong tree!' to imply that someone is mistaken.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• misdirect one's efforts
• follow the wrong lead
• pursue a fruitless endeavor
• waste one's time

Antonyms

• hit the nail on the head
• be on the right track
• find the right path
• make the correct choice