barking up the wrong tree
http://grafx.dli.com/slang/images/22...up_the_220.jpg
Definition: Looking for something in the wrong place; to be mistaken.
Example: 1) Tanya tried to get some money from her uncle, but she was barking up the wrong tree -- he doesn't have a dime
If you're looking for a new job, Ted, you're barking up the wrong tree. We aren't hiring right now
Etymology: A dog will chase its prey (such as a cat) until it runs up a tree. The dog then barks to tell its owner where the prey is. Sometimes, the dog might get confused, and bark at the 'wrong tree' where there is no prey
