They took 'soundings' on his chances of winning. [=they talked to and questioned people about his chances of winning]
The sailors were taking 'soundings' as the ship approached the coast.
The troops were 'sounding off' during their exercises.
(..) Yeah, yeah. And hey, I really mean it, dude. Hey, Joey. I don't think we can use this. Why not? Well, because you signed it,"Baby Kangaroo Tribbiani" Honey, why don't you stop worrying about sounding smart and just be yourself? You know what? You don't need the thesaurus. Just right from here. (..)2003 TvShow: Friends Title: The One Where Rachel's Sister Babysits Season: 10 Episode 5