Pull it/something out of the bag

usgb
phrase

To do something unexpectedly well, especially in a difficult situation.

The team was not doing well, but they managed to pull it out of the bag with a late goal.
Visual representation of "pull it/something out of the bag" - To do something unexpectedly well, especially in a difficult situation.

Often appears as...

  • pull it out of the bag
  • pull something out of the bag

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pull it/something out of the bag"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Success

Use when someone succeeds against the odds, when no one thought they would.

Illustration for Unexpected Success
Everyone doubted her, but she pulled it out of the bag and won the competition.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Last Minute

Especially useful for describing a sudden success near the end of an event or time period.

Illustration for Last Minute
He pulled it out of the bag with only minutes left in the exam.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Implies Tension

Often suggests a tense or challenging situation where the outcome was uncertain.

Illustration for Implies Tension
With the deadline approaching, they pulled it out of the bag with a brilliant proposal.
Visual representation of the word "Pull it/something out of the bag"

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