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

See Examples For:

in the bag

Now it is possible to be three points clear and get first place in the bag.

From BBC ● Jun. 19, 2026

Sales executive Joe Fontana thought he had a job in the bag, until his would-be employer contacted one of his former direct reports.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 11, 2026

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

This is essentially “shrinkflation,” like when a potato chip manufacturer keeps prices steady but puts fewer chips in the bag.

From Barron's ● May 29, 2026

In silence Eliot and Mrs. Sen ate the last few clam cakes in the bag.

From "Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumpa Lahiri

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