take one's measure
take one's measure or take the measure of {v. phr.}
To judge the character, quality, or nature of; try to guess about something — how hard or easy, dangerous or safe, good or bad, etc.
The boxers sparred for a while taking each other's measure.
John took the measure of the cliff before he climbed it.
Compare: SIZE UP.
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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms