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, 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
tv. to equal someone’s bet in poker. I see your five and raise you ten.
see
/hear things To have hallucinations.