put down a marker

To publicly demonstrate to others what one is capable of or intends to do. The president was quick to put down a marker about his plans regarding a tax overhaul for middle-class workers. This opening match is a chance to put down a marker within the league.

put down a marker

COMMON If you put down a marker, you do something that shows people what you are capable of, or what you intend to do in the future. Bates has certainly put down a marker of intent in his ambitions for the title. Note: Verbs such as set and lay can be used instead of put. St Mel's, winners of more titles than any other team, have set down a marker for those who might hope to beat them later in the season.