in the bag

Idioms  

1. Assured of success, virtually accomplished or won. For example, The coach thought the trophy was in the bag, or Our new contract is in the bag. The precise allusion in this idiom is unknown. One writer believes it refers to a completed transaction, that is, an item bought and wrapped in a bag. However, it may well refer to the game bag in which hunters place small game such as birds. [c. 1920] Also see under wrap up.

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Example Sentences

Is it presumptuous to say that an actor has an Oscar in the bag two weeks before the ceremony?

From Los Angeles Times

Backpacks, travel cases, laptop bags, large umbrellas, professional cameras and large tote bags are not permitted inside the venue but can be stored in the bag drop.

From BBC

Her ID must be in the bag on my shoulder!

From Literature

Marquez missed the last four races of the season after injuring his collarbone at the Indonesia grand prix with the title already in the bag.

From Barron's

But with the best producer trophy already in the bag, she hopes to inspire a new generation of female producers "who look like me, and want to make an alternative style of music".

From BBC