Bag You: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
September 16, 2023

The idiom "bag you" is a slang expression that means to claim something or someone for oneself, usually before anyone else can. It often indicates a preference, a desire, or a sense of ownership over something or someone.

In short:

  • It means to claim something or someone for oneself.
  • It is often shows a liking, a wish, or a claim of something.

What Does "Bag You" Mean?

The idiom "bag you" has two meanings depending on how it is used and who it is directed at.

Here are the meanings:

  • To claim something or someone for oneself, as explained above.
  • To reserve something or someone for oneself, especially for a later time or date.

Where Does "Bag You" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "bag you" is unclear. However, one possible explanation is that it may have come from the custom of putting tags or labels on bags or luggage to identify their owners or destinations. To bag something meant to mark it with one's name or address. This sense of bagging something may have implied a sense of reservation or exclusivity.

10 Examples of "Bag You" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how the idiom can be used in different sentences:

  • I saw that dress first, so I bag it! You can't have it! It doesn't suit you anyway.
  • She's a cutie pie. I bag her! No one else can ask her out!
  • Fret not. I bagged you a seat in the front row. You'll have a great view of the show.
  • I bagged her for an evening out. We're going on a date!
  • He bagged me with a kiss. I was stunned. Now, I am head over heels for him.
  • I don't care what you think, but don't let him bag you. He's a womanizer.
  • About last night, she bagged me as a third wheel for their date.
  • Can I bag you for a weekend? I am jetting off and need someone to look after my kids.
  • They bagged him for robbing the bank. He has been in jail as of late.
  • No worries. I can bag you for the party. I'll ask permission from your mom.

Examples of "Bag You" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom appeared in various forms of pop culture:

  • In the movie Clueless (1995), the character Cher says, "I bagged a Barney," to describe how she got a date with a guy who wears purple clothes.
  • In the book Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (1997), the character Ron says, "I bagged it first" to claim a seat next to Harry on the train to Hogwarts.
  • In the song "I Want You" by Savage Garden (1996), the singer says, "Ooh, I want you, I don't know if I need you, but ooh, I'd die to find out" and then repeats "I want you" several times, implying that he "bags" the person he is singing to.

Other/Different Ways to Say "Bag You"

Here are some of the synonyms for this idiom:

  • Claim
  • Call
  • Reserve
  • Book
  • Save

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Bag You"

Here are some of the common questions that people may have about the idiom:

  • What does "bag you" mean?

The idiom "bag you" is a slang expression that means to claim something or someone for oneself, usually before anyone else can. It often indicates a preference, a desire, or a sense of ownership over something or someone.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "bag you"?

The origin of the idiom "bag you" is unclear. However, one possible explanation is that it may have come from the custom of putting tags or labels on bags or luggage to identify their owners or destinations.

  • Is "bag you" formal or informal?

"Bag you" is an informal expression primarily used in casual conversations among friends, family, or peers. Using it in formal settings such as academic, professional, or official contexts is inappropriate.

  • Is "bag you" rude or polite?

"Bag you" can be rude or polite depending on how it is used and who it is directed at. It can be harsh and selfish if used to claim something that belongs to someone else without their consent. However, if it expresses one's interest in something not taken by anyone else, it can be polite and respectful.

  • Is "bag you" British or American?

"Bag you" is a common expression in British and American English. However, there may be differences in how often and widely it is used in different regions and countries. According to some sources, "bag you" is more prevalent in British than American English. In American English, "call dibs" may be more common than "bag you."

  • What other idioms mean the same as "bag you"?

Some other idioms that mean the same as "bag you" are "call dibs," "have first dibs," "hands off," "mine," and "you're mine."

  • What are some antonyms for "bag you"?

Some antonyms for "bag you" are "share," "let go," "you're free," and "you're not mine."

  • How ordinary is "bag you" in spoken and written English?

"Bag you" is not very common in spoken and written English. It is mainly used by young people or in informal settings. It may also be considered outdated or old-fashioned by some speakers.

  • How do you pronounce "bag you"?

You pronounce "bag you" as /bæɡ juː/ in British English and /bæɡ ju/ in American English. The stress is on the first syllable of "bag."

  • How do you spell "bag you"?

You spell "bag you" as two separate words: bag and you. There is no hyphen or apostrophe between them.

Final Thoughts About "Bag You"

The idiom "bag you" is a versatile and expressive way to communicate one's intentions, feelings, and actions regarding something or someone. It can be used to show one's preference, desire, ownership, reservation, teasing, or challenging of something or someone.

Here are some key points to remember about the idiom:

  • It often indicates a preference, a desire, or a sense of ownership.
  • It can be rude or polite depending on how it is used and who it is directed at.
  • It has different synonyms and antonyms expressing the same or opposite meanings.
  • It is an informal and slang expression that may not be suitable for all situations and audiences.

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

U.S Dictionary is the premier dictionary about the English language as used in the United States of America.
Copyright © 2024 - U.S. Dictionary
Privacy Policy
magnifier