PUT OUT FEELER Meaning and
Definition
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To "put out feelers" refers to the act of tentatively exploring or gauging the opinions, reactions, or interest of others regarding a particular matter or idea. It involves the intentional seeking of information or reactions from people as a means of testing the waters or gathering preliminary insights before making a more definitive move or decision.
The phrase often alludes to the metaphorical action of extending one's emotional antenna or "feeler," similar to how an insect uses its antennae to sense the environment. By putting out feelers, an individual is subtly or discreetly signaling their intentions or planting a seed of the idea in conversation, in order to assess how others may respond.
Putting out feelers can be done implicitly or explicitly, depending on the situation and the individual's communication style. It can involve asking open-ended questions, casually mentioning a topic, or indirectly probing for reactions through conversations or informal interactions. It is typically employed when one is unsure about the potential outcomes or reactions to their thoughts or proposals.
Overall, putting out feelers serves as a preliminary step in assessing the viability, consensus, or consequences of an idea, allowing the person initiating the action to gather useful feedback and information before making a more decisive move or commitment.
Common Misspellings for PUT OUT FEELER
