I need to check the lay of the land before I start.
lay of the land
idiomThe physical characteristics of the terrain or surrounding natural environment.
The new manager spent his first week observing the office to understand the lay of the land.
Before committing to the acquisition, the investors conducted a thorough survey to understand the complex lay of the land regarding local regulations.
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fat of the land
The greatest part of anything; the finest and most abundant share of resources; the cream of the crop.
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land in someone's lap
To come into somebody's possession without that person making any effort to attain it, and possibly without them expecting it.
- 03
land legs
A sense of balance, slowly regained after a time at sea.
- 04
land on
To reach a common conclusion or agreement, usually following a small period of disagreement.
- 05
land on one's feet
To be lucky, or successful, often in difficult situations.
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land poor
In a condition of poverty as a result of inability to meet tax payments or other financial requirements for one's land holdings.
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land the plane
To abort an unsuccessful enterprise, especially an unsuccessful political campaign.
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lay a finger on
To merely touch.