- To achieve two separate goals or solve two different problems with a single action.
Explanation
Origin
- The imagery comes from hunting, specifically with a projectile like a stone from a sling or a shot from a gun.
- Successfully hitting and killing two birds with only one projectile would be remarkably efficient and skillful.
- The idiom transfers this idea of efficiency to accomplishing multiple tasks simultaneously.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Score a twofer (Meaning getting two things for the effort/price of one)
- Double dip (Sometimes used this way, though often has negative connotations of taking twice when only entitled once)
- Bang out two things at once
More Formal/Neutral:
- Address two issues simultaneously
- Achieve dual objectives
- Combine tasks efficiently
Situational Appropriateness
- Generally acceptable in most situations, including informal business contexts.
- Some people may find the killing imagery slightly unpleasant, but it's a very common and standard idiom.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might take the killing aspect literally if unfamiliar with the idiom. It's purely metaphorical.
Examples
- I can pick up the groceries on my way back from the gym, killing two birds with one stone.
- Cycling to work kills two birds with one stone: it's good exercise and saves money on gas.
- Let's have the meeting during lunch; we can kill two birds with one stone.
Dialogue
Anna: I need to go to the post office, and I also need to return these library books.
Ben: The library is right next to the post office, isn't it?
Anna: Oh, yeah! I can kill two birds with one stone. Great idea.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Working from the coffee shop today. Getting caffeine and changing scenery = killing two birds with one stone! #remotework #productivity
- Post: Visited my grandma and helped her with gardening. Quality time + chores done. Killed two birds with one stone. ❤️ #family #helpingout
- LinkedIn Update: Attending the conference allows us to network with industry leaders and scout new talent – killing two birds with one stone. #businesstravel #efficiency
Response Patterns
- Good idea!
- That's efficient.
- Smart thinking.
- Sounds like a plan.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- After proposing the action: Confirming the plan (Okay, so you'll grab the groceries?), expressing agreement.
- After hearing the expression: Acknowledging the efficiency, maybe suggesting other ways to combine tasks.
Conversation Starter
- No. Typically used mid-conversation when planning or discussing actions.
Intonation
- Emphasis often falls on two and one: Kill TWO birds with ONE stone.
- The tone is usually practical or pleased with the efficiency.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.