To expect or wait for something that is very unlikely to happen; to want something one has no chance of receiving.
To want something you're not going to get — like whistling into the wind.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
(British, informal) To expect something one has no right to or no chance of receiving. Often used in the negative or as a dismissal.
"If he thinks he's getting a refund after three months, he can whistle for it."
To signal or summon someone by whistling — the transparent, literal use.
"He whistled for his dog, who came bounding across the field."
To call for something by whistling — as one might whistle for a dog — implying the action will be futile.
To want something you're not going to get — like whistling into the wind.
Primarily British English. Usually used in the phrase 'you can whistle for it' to refuse someone bluntly. Has a dismissive, sometimes rude tone. Becoming less common in modern speech.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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