Be barking up the wrong tree

usgb
verb phrase

To make a wrong assumption about something or someone, to go in wrong direction in one's search, thinking or efforts.

He thinks it was me who said those things, but he's barking up the wrong tree - I wasn't even there.
Visual representation of "be barking up the wrong tree" - To make a wrong assumption about something or someone, to go in wrong direction in one's search, thinking or efforts.

Often appears as...

  • you're barking up the wrong tree
  • don't bark up the wrong tree

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be barking up the wrong tree"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Figurative Meaning

The phrase implies a mistake in approach or strategy, not just location or direction.

Illustration for Figurative Meaning
Insisting on lower prices from that vendor is barking up the wrong tree; they value service over costs.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Usage

It's common in casual speech but may be too informal for serious or formal writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
You're barking up the wrong tree if you think I'm the one gossiping.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Avoid in Formal

Don't use it in formal settings like business reports or academic papers.

Illustration for Avoid in Formal
In the meeting, she suggested, 'Let's not bark up the wrong tree,' to her colleague's informal chagrin.
Visual representation of the word "Be barking up the wrong tree"

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