bark up the wrong tree

Meaning: to pursue a wrong course; to blame the wrong person.

Language: English

Literally: to bark up the wrong tree

Category: Animals

Origin: American hunting term: dogs mistakenly barking at trees where game had moved from.

More idioms — Animals

get your ducks in a row — to organize yourself; to prepare systematically.
in a pig's eye — absolutely not; never; expressing strong disagreement.
like a fish out of water — uncomfortable or awkward in a situation; out of one's element.
bury the hatchet — to make peace; to settle a dispute.
a nose for something — a talent for finding or recognizing something; keen instinct.
Il y a anguille sous roche — Something suspicious is quietly going on beneath the surface.

have the wool pulled over your eyes — to be deceived or fooled.
not worth your salt — incompetent; not deserving of wages or respect.
stick your oar in — to interfere in someone else's affairs; to meddle.
lower your guard — to relax defenses; to become vulnerable.
bring home the bacon — to provide income; to succeed in earning money.
have an axe to grind — to have a personal grievance; hidden motives behind actions.

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