Barking Up The Wrong Tree
- Barking Up The Wrong Tree
- How common is this idiom?: This idiom is still widely used in everyday conversation, but its usage has slightly decreased with the rise of more modern expressions. However, it's still a common phrase used by people of all ages, especially in informal settings.
- Literal Meaning: The literal meaning is to chase or pursue something that is not the correct or intended target.
- Actual Idiomatic Meaning: The actual idiomatic meaning is to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action, often due to incorrect assumptions or a misunderstanding.
- I think you're barking up the wrong tree if you think you can finish that project by the end of the week.
- The police were barking up the wrong tree when they suspected the wrong person of the crime.
Do you want all the latest topics and questions that are on the IELTS speaking exam right now?