Kill Two Birds with One Stone Idiom : Meaning, History & Synonyms

Killing two birds with one stone is a great way to save time and get more done. It’s simply a way of saying that you can achieve two things at the same time, or with the same effort.

There are many ways to kill two birds with one stone. For example, if you’re going to the grocery store, you could also pick up some prescriptions at the pharmacy. Or, if you’re going to the gym, you could also work on your presentation for work while you’re there.

The possibilities are endless! So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that you can always kill two birds with one stone. Now, Let’s check out the kill two birds with one stone meaning here:

Meaning of Kill Two Birds with One Stone: 

• accomplish two different things at the same time
• solve two problems with one single action
• achieve two things with a single action
• achieve two ends with a single effort

Definition of Kill Two Birds with One Stone: 

The “kill two birds with one stone” idiom means to achieve two things at once, or with the same effort. It is a way of saying that you can be more efficient and effective by combining tasks.

The idiom is often used in a literal sense, such as when you are shooting at birds with a bow and arrow. If you can hit two birds with one arrow, you have saved time and effort. However, the idiom can also be used in a more figurative sense.

Origin & History of Kill Two Birds with One Stone:

• The idiom “kill two birds with one stone” first appeared in writing in 1656.
• It is thought to have originated from the story of Daedalus and Icarus in Greek mythology.
• The idiom is now used to describe any situation where someone is able to accomplish two things at once.

Synonyms of Kill Two Birds with One Stone:

Here are some synonyms of the “kill two birds with one stone” idiom:

• Combine tasks
• Multitask
• Double up
• Do two things at once
• Have the best of both worlds
• Get two for one
• Kill two flies with one slap
• To carry two faces under one hood
• Solve two problems at one time

Usage of Kill Two Birds with One Stone:

Here are some idiom “kill two birds with one stone” examples in a sentence form:

1. He had gone to Canada on a business trip, while there, he killed two birds with one stone and visited his relatives as well.
2. Cycling to work kills two birds with one stone. It saves money and keeps you fit.
3. When I went shopping, I caught up with a few old colleagues who now work there, killing two birds with one stone.
4. I went grocery shopping and stopped by the post office on my way home, so I could kill two birds with one stone.
5. I decided to get a haircut and a massage at the same time, so I could kill two birds with one stone.
6. I’m planning on taking a road trip this summer, so I can kill two birds with one stone by visiting my family and friends along the way.
7. By taking the scenic route to work, I can kill two birds with one stone – enjoy a peaceful drive and catch up on my favorite audiobook.
8. We decided to have our team meeting during lunch break so that we could kill two birds with one stone – discuss the project updates and enjoy a meal together.
9. I suggested we go grocery shopping on the way back from the gym; that way, we can kill two birds with one stone and save time.
10. Mark’s decision to study while commuting on the train helps him kill two birds with one stone – he uses his travel time productively and maximizes his study hours.

Exercise:

Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the idiom “kill two birds with one stone” in the given sentences:

1. By attending the workshop during the weekend, I can __________ – learn new skills and connect with industry professionals.
2. The company’s decision to implement eco-friendly practices not only helps the environment but also improves cost-efficiency, effectively __________.
3. Instead of just watching TV, why not exercise while doing so? This way, you can __________ – stay active and catch up on your favorite shows.
4. Susan’s plan to visit her grandparents over the holidays allows her to __________ – spend time with family and explore her hometown.
5. The new app not only simplifies online shopping but also offers exclusive discounts, enabling users to __________.

Conclusion

The “kill two birds with one stone” idiom is a reminder that we can often achieve more by combining tasks or goals. It is a way of saying that we can be more efficient and effective by looking for ways to do multiple things at once, or with the same effort.

This idiom can be applied to many different areas of our lives, from work to school to our personal relationships.

Also check :

• 35 Useful Idioms for IELTS Speaking

• IELTS Speaking tips

• Linking words for IELTS Speaking

• IELTS Pronunciation Guide

• Common English words in IELTS Speaking

• Ough words

• Common Idioms to Boost Your IELTS Score – Topic: Safety and risk