whistle for

verb

1. informal.
   intr, preposition to seek or expect in vain

Idioms and Phrases

Ask for or expect without any prospect of success, as in If you want a cash refund, you can just whistle for it . [Mid-1700s]

Example Sentences

He often distinguishes himself as someone who sticks up for neighborhood identity — what some consider a dog whistle for “NIMBYism,” a colloquial term for opposition to large multifamily housing projects or other unwelcome development.

From Los Angeles Times

But the goal didn’t count because the referee blew the whistle for the offside without letting the play be completed.

From Seattle Times

Bayern loudly complained at the end after a goal by Matthijs de Ligt didn’t count because the referee blew the whistle for offside without letting the play be completed.

From Seattle Times

I whistle for Cleo and Cocoa, and they follow us out into a large area that’s a kitchen, living room, and dining room in one.

From Literature

Klopp apologised to Liverpool’s fans, many of whom left before the final whistle, for the bitter taste left by his final Merseyside derby.

From BBC

Related Words

• accost
• acknowledge
• address
• approach
• attend
• embrace
• hail
• meet
• receive
• salute
• shake hands
• stop