How to Memorize

feel someone out about something

Analysis

To feel someone out means to attempt to obtain information or someone's feelings or opinion on something without asking them directly. You might feel someone out in order to gauge someone's interest or position on something sensitive.

Social Examples (Basic)

1. I got the impression yesterday that Jenny was trying to feel me out about giving her a loan. I hope that wasn't the case because I don't feel comfortable lending money to friends.
2. I'm not sure what his position is on politics but I'll try to feel him out when we go for drinks together.

Professional Examples (Basic)

1. I don't know whether my boss has me in mind for the promotion or not. I'm still trying to feel him out about it.
2. Ahead of his sales pitch, Frank wanted to get a better sense of what the executives were looking for, so he spent a few minutes feeling them out before he began.

Further Suggestions