feel out

Idioms and Phrases

Try cautiously or indirectly to ascertain someone's viewpoint or the nature of something. For example, We'd better feel out the author before we commit him to a publicity tour . This term alludes to physical groping. [Late 1800s] Also see take the pulse of .

Example Sentences

Before long, however, he began to feel out of place and went back downstairs for a while to chat up the cook.

From The Daily Beast

She had dropped her flashlight and had to feel out with her hands along the damp earth until she found it.

From Project Gutenberg

Aunt Jane's arguments seemed over-ruled in such a pleasant yet decisive manner that she began to feel out-generaled.

From Project Gutenberg

Ella would feel out of place in the minister's parlor, that was all.

From Project Gutenberg

Bob really had a good head for machinery though, and now he was beginning to feel out his path.

From Project Gutenberg

We did not feel out of our place in being present, and I trust it may have its use both on ourselves and others.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• affect
• disturb
• excite
• grab
• impress
• influence
• inspire
• mark
• move
• stir
• strike
• stroke
• upset