mixed bag

English

Etymology

From mixed + bag.

Noun

mixed bag (plural mixed bags)

1. any bag containing a mixture of something

   a mixed bag of nuts

2. by extension, a group of entities with few characteristics in common; an assortment
3. (idiomatic) something tending to have both good and bad results or characteristics; something having a mixture of advantages and disadvantages

   Owning a car is a mixed bag. It is convenient, but also costly.

   • 2011 January 22, Phil McNulty, “Aston Villa 1 - 0 Man City”, BBC:

     It was Villa, however, who posted the next moment of danger with another long-range effort from Young, forcing Hart - who had been a mixed bag throughout - to dive low to his right to save as Houllier's side continued to perform in a most encouraging fashion

See also

• grab bag
• goodie bag