What does “Have Something in the Bag” mean?

"Have something in the bag" means to have something secured or guaranteed.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I've got the job interview in the bag.

Example

Don't worry, I have our dinner reservations in the bag.

Example

With his skills, he has the championship in the bag

Is “Have Something in the Bag” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Have Something in the Bag” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Have Something in the Bag” effectively in context?

You can use "Have Something in the Bag" to express confidence or certainty that something is secured or guaranteed. It implies that you have already achieved or obtained what you were aiming for. For example, if you have successfully prepared for a job interview, you might say, 'I've got the job interview "in the bag".'

1Job Interview
After months of preparation, she was confident and felt like she had the job in the bag.
2Making Reservations
With her excellent connections, she assured her friends that she had their dinner reservations in the bag.
3Sports Competition
With his exceptional skills and training, he believed he had the championship in the bag.

Similar phrases to “Have Something in the Bag”:

In the clear

To be free from danger or uncertainty

Example

After passing all the tests, she knew she was in the clear and would graduate.

Nail it

To accomplish something successfully or flawlessly

Example

With her talent and practice, she was confident she would nail it during the performance.

Seal the deal

To finalize or secure an agreement or arrangement

Example

After negotiating the terms, they were able to seal the deal and sign the contract.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Have Something in the Bag” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Have Something in the Bag" is unknown.

Is “Have Something in the Bag” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Have Something in the Bag" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express confidence or certainty about achieving a goal or securing something.

What tone does “Have Something in the Bag” have?

"Have Something in the Bag" conveys a tone of assurance and confidence. It is often used to show that someone is confident in their abilities or the outcome of a situation.

Can “Have Something in the Bag” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Have Something in the Bag" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of having something secured or guaranteed. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as interviews, presentations, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She was well-prepared and had the job interview "in the bag".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I've got it "in the bag"!' to imply confidence in achieving a goal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

assured
guaranteed
secured
in the clear
in the pocket
in the bank

Antonyms

uncertain
up in the air
at risk
in doubt
not a sure thing