the lie of the land

Meaning

1. 1

   the way the land in an area is formed and what physical characteristics it has

2. 2

   the way a situation is now and how it is likely to develop

   Check out the lie of the land before you make a decision.

In the movies · 1

• But I'll grab a Pepsi and get a lay of the land.Come from Away2021
• I mean, do you think you could have a word with her and just suss the lie of the land?Notes on a Scandal2006
• Nil desperandum, dear lady. Across the desert lies the Promised Land.Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory1971

Learn it in full scenes

• Come from Away2021
  • Gander Learns of the Emergency
  • Planes Land Unexpectedly in Gander
  • Gander Declares a State of Emergency
• Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory1971
  • Grandpa Joe Tells the Factory Legend
  • Mr. Turkentine's Science Class
  • Charlie Opens His Birthday Wonka Bar

From the same entry

• lie ahead store
• lie in state
• lie in wait
• lie low
• take lying down
• you've made your bed and you must lie in it
• be at the bottom of
• hang heavy
• see, how the land lies
• let sleeping dogs lie
• lie around
• lie back