see how the land lies

Related to see how the land lies: grin like a Cheshire cat, wet behind the ears

see how the land lies

To find out about or come to understand a particular state of affairs or the way a situation exists or has developed, especially before taking any decisive or definitive action. Given the turbulent nature of this market, I think it would be prudent for us to see how the land lies before we agree to invest in your company. I'm just seeing how the land lies between my parents before I make any solid plans to come visit them.
See also: how, land, lie, see
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

see, etc. how the ˈland lies

(British English) find out about a situation: Let’s wait and see how the land lies before we do anything.
See also: how, land, lie
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

see

tv. to equal someone’s bet in poker. I see your five and raise you ten.
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions

see

/hear things
To have hallucinations.
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • see
  • see how the wind blows
  • see how the wind is blowing
  • see which way the wind blows
  • see which way the wind is blowing
  • see, etc. how the land lies
  • spy out the land
  • find out how the land lies
  • status quo
  • put the tin hat on (something)