How to use Idiom “Barking up the wrong tree” in English? Examples and tips from Grammar Experts
Idiom “Barking up the wrong tree” means to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action. Imagine a dog barking at the base of a tree where the object of its interest (like a squirrel) is not actually located — that’s the idea behind this idiom.
Prehistory of the Idiom
The phrase “barking up the wrong tree” originates from hunting dogs in the 19th century. When hunting, dogs might bark at the base of a tree, thinking their prey is there, but they’re actually mistaken. Over time, it came to describe any situation where someone is going about something the wrong way.
Short Advice
Use this idiom when you want to tell someone they are making a mistake or going about something incorrectly. It’s a way to suggest they reconsider their approach.
Examples of Using “Barking up the wrong tree” in Sentences:
- “If you think I’ll lend you money, you’re barking up the wrong tree.” — You’re asking the wrong person for money.
- “She’s barking up the wrong tree by blaming him for the mistake.” — She’s incorrectly blaming him.
- “The police were barking up the wrong tree when they arrested the wrong suspect.” — They made a mistake in their investigation.
- “If you think hard work alone will make you successful, you’re barking up the wrong tree.” — Success requires more than just hard work.
- “He’s barking up the wrong tree if he thinks she’ll forgive him so easily.” — He’s mistaken in thinking she’ll forgive him.
- “Trying to solve the problem this way is barking up the wrong tree.” — This approach to solving the problem is incorrect.
- “You’re barking up the wrong tree if you think complaining will change anything.” — Complaining won’t solve the issue.
- “They’re barking up the wrong tree by investing in that failing company.” — They’re making a mistake with their investment.
- “If she thinks skipping classes will help her pass, she’s barking up the wrong tree.” — She’s mistaken in her approach to passing.
- “Blaming the equipment for the failure is barking up the wrong tree.” — The equipment isn’t the cause of the failure.
- “You’re barking up the wrong tree if you believe the rumors.” — Believing the rumors is a mistake.
- “He’s barking up the wrong tree by ignoring the feedback from his team.” — Ignoring feedback is a misguided approach.
- “If they think lowering prices will solve their problems, they’re barking up the wrong tree.” — Lowering prices isn’t the solution.
- “She’s barking up the wrong tree by trying to change his mind on that topic.” — She’s mistaken in thinking she can change his mind.
- “You’re barking up the wrong tree if you think you can outsmart her.” — Trying to outsmart her is a mistake.
Find the Right Approach in Learning
In your English learning journey, make sure you’re not barking up the wrong tree. Use effective methods and resources to improve your skills.
Try Grammar Cards for English learning to ensure you’re on the right track. The Metkagram method uses visual tags to highlight grammar patterns in context, helping you learn accurately and efficiently.
👉 Grammar cards on Google Play
This advice helps you adopt the right approach and avoid mistakes in your learning journey.
About the Author
For more practical tips and personal stories about learning English, visit the Bear In The Dark Dev Blog. I share my experiences and insights to help make your English learning journey as effective and enjoyable as possible.
Keep learning, and make sure you’re not barking up the wrong tree!
