This idiom means that something is certain, assured, or successfully secured, often referring to a goal, deal, or outcome that is virtually guaranteed. It evokes the image of game already caught and placed in a hunter’s bag, symbolizing completion. The phrase is used in professional, competitive, or personal contexts to express confidence or relief, carrying an optimistic or triumphant tone. It reflects cultural values of achievement and certainty, often implying that only minor formalities remain before success is finalized.

The phrase likely originated in early 20th-century America, tied to hunting or sports, where ‘in the bag’ meant game was secured. An early use appears in a 1919 *New York Times* sports article, describing a boxing match as ‘in the bag’ for the favorite. The idiom gained traction during the 1920s, reflecting America’s competitive culture, as seen in Ring Lardner’s baseball stories. Its use grew in business and political contexts during the mid-20th century, and was popularized through film and journalism. The phrase’s vivid imagery and association with victory ensured its spread across English-speaking cultures, particularly in contexts of success and assurance.