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

Here’s the headline: You have unusually strong income security, with two Social Security checks, a pension, a spouse still earning a salary with another 80% pension on the way, and long-term-care insurance in the bag.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

Goalkeeper David Raya had played every minute of the season until he was rested on the final day against Crystal Palace with the title already in the bag.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

“The U.S. narrative is, ‘We’ve got everything in the bag.’

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

Finally sensing our glares, she takes the shirt off and throws it back in the bag.

From "First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers" by Loung Ung