in the can

The phrase "in the can" originates from the film industry, referring to the stage where footage is stored in film cans after shooting.

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Definition

C1Filmmaking

(technical, industry-specific)Filming is finished, and the footage is ready for editing.

Example

The director announced that the movie is finally in the can.

B2General

(informal)A project or task is completed and ready for the next stage.

Example

With the report in the can, we can now focus on the presentation.

B1Informal

(slang)Being in the bathroom.

Example

I'll be back in a minute, I'm in the can.

B2Informal

(slang)Being in prison.

Example

He spent three years in the can for his crimes.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "in the can":

in the bag tomato can in the tank in a box in the barrel in the drink canned heat bottle it in the hole kick at the can on the shelf in it