How to Memorize

to land/bag a job/place/good deal

Analysis

'To bag something' is related to the expression 'to have it in the bag', meaning an achievement that is sure and can't be taken from you. You might 'bag a point' in a game or sport for example. 'To bag' something can also mean to claim something before others have the chance to claim it - such as bagging two great seats at the concert of on the plane. You can 'bag the shopping' or 'bag an item' meaning to literally put something into a bag. In Australia and New Zealand 'to bag someone' means to criticize them. In America 'to bag something' can also mean to cancel or postpone it. "We had to bag the trip until later in the week because of the weather." 'To bag something' is a casual phrasal verb usually used in informal speech. An alternative to 'bag something' is 'land something'. You might say you 'landed a new job' or "I'm hoping to land that promotion at the end of the month".

Social Examples (Basic)

1. I'm so glad I bagged that job at the supermarket. I need to save money for Christmas.
2. Well done on landing a place at the running finals. I heard the competition was very tough.

Professional Examples (Basic)

1. We need to land five more clients by the end of the next quarter in order to reach our goals.
2. Hopefully, the government can bag a good deal with foreign investors to upgrade transport services.

Further Suggestions