Определение bark up the wrong tree в Английский Язык Английский Язык словарь
To do, believe, or pursue something wrong or inappropriate; to take the wrong approach; to follow a false lead; to blame or rebuke the wrong person
After three failed marriages I realised that I may have been barking up the wrong tree and should abandon the search for the perfect wife.
Make a wrong assumption about something, look in the wrong place. - The police are barking up the wrong tree in their investigation of that person. - If you expect money from him, you're barking up the wrong tree