Court Interpreter Written Practice Exam 2025 – Your Complete All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Question: 1 / 400

What does the phrase "barking up the wrong tree" imply?

Making a loud noise

Asking the wrong person

The phrase "barking up the wrong tree" implies asking the wrong person or pursuing a mistaken course of action. Originating from hunting, where a dog might bark at the base of a tree thinking its quarry is up above, it symbolizes a situation where someone is misguided in their beliefs or inquiries. It suggests that the efforts being exerted are misdirected, indicating to the listener that they may be seeking solutions or answers in the wrong place. This idiom emphasizes the importance of ensuring that one's inquiries or efforts are focused where they are most likely to yield results. The phrase does not pertain to making noise, being assertive, or taking risks, which reflect entirely different concepts.

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Being overly assertive

Taking unnecessary risks

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