take the pulse of
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take the pulse of (something)
To sense, determine, or judge the mood, feeling, or status of a particular group, setting, or environment. Try to take the pulse of the crowd. If they seem bored, play some more upbeat songs. We've been trying to take the pulse of voters ahead of the election, and so far it has been almost exactly split down the middle between the two candidates.
take the pulse of something
Fig. to sample or survey something to learn about its progress or state. Two executives came in to take the pulse of the local business unit.
take the pulse of
Also, feel the pulse of. Try to determine the intentions or sentiments of a person or group, as in These exit polls allegedly take the pulse of the voters, but I don't believe they're very meaningful . [First half of 1600s] Also see feel out.
take the pulse of
To judge the mood or views of (a political electorate, for example): The politician was able to take the pulse of the grass-roots voters.