Give an example of an idiom or collocation with a cultural reference and explain its meaning.

Give an example of an idiom or collocation with a cultural reference and explain its meaning.

One example of an idiom with a cultural reference is "barking up the wrong tree." This phrase originated from the practice of hunting raccoons or other animals that climb trees. When a dog barks at the base of a tree, it indicates that the animal is hiding in that tree. However, if the dog barks at the wrong tree, it means that it has mistakenly identified the location of the animal.

In a figurative sense, "barking up the wrong tree" means to pursue a mistaken or incorrect course of action, or to direct one's efforts or accusations towards the wrong person or thing. It implies that someone is looking in the wrong place or making incorrect assumptions, leading to wasted time and effort.