What Does “That’s a Wrap” Mean?

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Plus, where this phrase came from and how to use it in conversation
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You might have heard the phrase “that’s a wrap” in movies, TV shows, or personal conversations, but what does this idiom actually mean? If you’re looking for the answer to this question, you’re in luck! We’ll go over the definition of the phrase “that’s a wrap” and explain it came from. We’ll also cover the correct way to use this phrase in conversation, so keep reading!

“That’s a Wrap” Definition

“That’s a wrap” means that something is finished. Originally, movie directors used this phrase to tell cast and crew members that filming had concluded. Now, people use the phrase in various situations. For example, at the end of a meeting your boss might say, “That’s a wrap, folks! See you at the same time next week.”

Section 1 of 3:

“That’s a Wrap” Meaning & Origin

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    The phrase originated in Hollywood, where directors would shout “that’s a wrap” when they’d finished filming a movie or a scene. [1] Over the years, the phrase has become popular outside of movie-making, and people now say it in various situations to signal that something has concluded. Here are a few examples:
    • “Alright folks, that’s a wrap! You’ve all put in so much hard work during the filming of this movie, and you should be proud of your accomplishment. Go home, get some rest, and celebrate!”
    • “Okay everyone, that’s a wrap. Thank you all so much for helping me set up these decorations for tomorrow’s fundraiser. Now go home and rest up before the big day!”
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Section 2 of 3:

How to Use “That’s a Wrap” in Conversation

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    The phrase often has a celebratory connotation, and it essentially means, “We did it! We can go home now!” To embody this energy, try saying “that’s a wrap” when you’ve just completed a difficult task or accomplished an impressive feat. For example:
    • “That’s a wrap for the night, everyone! Thank you all for hanging in there with me through this long meeting. Now head home and enjoy your weekend!”
    • “Alright everyone, that’s a wrap on today’s yoga class. I’ve been seeing so much improvement in everyone’s form. Keep up the good work!”
    • “That’s a wrap on my final essay! I finally finished proofreading and just submitted it. I can’t wait to kick back, relax, and enjoy the summer.”
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    Some people use “that’s a wrap” to inform others that a friendship, romantic relationship, job, or some other situation has ended. In this context, the phrase has a less positive and celebratory tone, but it does lighten the mood when discussing these difficult topics.
    • “Unfortunately, it's a wrap on my friendship with Brianna. She’s changed a lot over the past several years, and our fight last week was the final straw.”
    • “Jack and I broke up last weekend. We suddenly just looked at each other and were like, ‘That’s a wrap.’ I'm sad, but at least we’re parting on good terms.”
    • “I’ve been unhappy at work for a long time, but after my favorite coworker left, I was like, ‘That’s a wrap, folks!’ I turned in my two week notice that day.”
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Section 3 of 3:

Similar Phrases

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    When something is “done and dusted,” it’s finished and complete. [2] There’s nothing more to do or say, and all the loose ends are tied up. [3] For example:
    • “Aright, this project is done and dusted! I think we've covered everything we needed to. Good work, everyone.”
    • “My passport application is done and dusted. I just submitted it, so now we just wait for my new passport to come in the mail.”
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    Just like “that’s a wrap,” people say the phrase “mission accomplished” to celebrate when they’ve completed a task, project, or assignment. [4]
    • “Okay, mission accomplished. I just submitted my essay with minutes to spare before the deadline. Let’s go out and celebrate!”
    • “I finished wrapping and hiding all her birthday presents before she made it home from work. Mission accomplished!”
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    When something is “in the can,” this means it is completely finished. [5] This phrase is essentially a synonym for “that’s a wrap,” and it can be used in pretty much the same way.
    • “Alright guys, that’s another rehearsal in the can! Head home and rest up before opening night tomorrow.”
    • “Our group finished the assignment last night. It’s in the can and ready to present in class tomorrow.”
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/wrap
      2. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/be-done-and-dusted
      3. ↑ https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/done-and-dusted
      4. ↑ https://www.yourdictionary.com/mission-accomplished
      5. ↑ https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/in-the-can

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