the fix is in
Contest already decided
The fix is in means an outcome has been secretly predetermined through bribery, manipulation, or collusion.
The phrase comes from sports betting and organized crime, where a "fix" is an arrangement to rig a competition: The fix was in before the fight even started.
It extends to any situation where the result is dishonestly controlled: With those judges on the panel, the fix is already in.
- briberyCorrupt payment for influence
- on the takeAccepting illicit payments
- cover-upHiding wrongdoing from public
- smoke-filled roomSecret political negotiation venue
- scamDishonest money-making scheme
nod · deal · back room deal · rigging · stacked deck · cash · under the table · scheme · bagman · dirty money · control · swindle · kickbacks · hoax · thrown · tampering · palm · palm greasing
the fix is infair and square
Honestly and legitimately
on the level · above board · by the book · legitimate · fair play
the fix is inup for grabs
Open for claiming
wide open · unpredictable · too close to call · toss-up · down to the wire
fix, fixed, fixing, fixer, fixes, fixable, fixation, fixate, fixated