barking up the wrong tree
/ˌbɑːrkɪŋ ʌp ðə ˌrɒŋ ˈtriː/
pursuing a mistaken or misguided course
barking up the wrong tree in a sentence
“If you think I took your keys, you're barking up the wrong tree.”
Origin of barking up the wrong tree
American English from hunting dogs barking at base of wrong tree after prey escaped
Related Words
beat around the bush
to avoid getting to the point; speak evasively
bite off more than you can chew
to take on more responsibility than you can handle
bite the bullet
to endure a painful situation with courage
break the ice
to initiate conversation in a social setting
burn bridges
to destroy relationships or opportunities permanently
burn the midnight oil
to work late into the night