This phrase is used to express the impossibility or absurdity of a situation, similar to the English phrase 'getting blood from a stone.' It suggests requesting or expecting something from a person or situation that is unlikely or impossible to provide it.
Examples
- Spanish: Pedirle a Juan que llegue temprano es como pedirle peras al olmo, él siempre llega tarde.
- English: Asking Juan to arrive early is like asking for pears from an elm tree, he always arrives late.