1
general::
Phrase(s): *in the bag
1. Fig. cinched; achieved. (*Typically: be ~; have something ~.) • It’s in the bag—as good as done. • The election is in the bag unless the voters find out about my past. 2. Fig. Inf. intoxicated. (*Typically: be ~.) • Kelly looks like he is in the bag. • John is in the bag and mean as hell.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
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.
American Heritage Idioms