Chase The Bag / Secure The Bag

Definition:

Refers to pursuing or obtaining a goal, with the metaphorical "bag" typically symbolizing money (or any desired achievements)

Context:

The phrase originated in hip-hop culture through rap songs in the mid-2010s and gained mainstream popularity on social media where it became shorthand for hustling and achieving wealth (similar to the older phrase "get the bread," but with updated imagery — a bag of money rather than bread symbolizing sustenance). The phrase is used both seriously to praise success ("I see you working that side hustle—secure the bag!"), as well as ironically in memes to critique toxic hustle culture (such as noting self-referentially that we now “glorify chasing the bag at all costs”).

While initially referring literally to acquiring money, Gen-Z has expanded its meaning to encompass achieving any significant goal or reward — from landing a job to closing a business deal. Additional variations have also emerged, such as "fumble the bag" which describes missing or mishandling an opportunity.

Example:

^{(all names & events in the
following scenario have been made
up)}

Aarun: “You applied to 14 scholarships last night??”

Esthur: “Sleep can wait — gotta secure the bag!”