the way a situation has been arranged or has developed.
After a few days on the job, I began to understand how the land lies and which people would be helpful.
how the land lies
A particular state of affairs or the way a situation exists or has developed. Given the turbulent nature of this market, I think it would be prudent for us to see how the land lies before we agree to invest in your company.I want to find out how the land lies between my parents before I make any solid plans to come visit them.