kill two birds with one stone
Meaning
To achieve two goals with a single action or effort.
Origin
Recorded from at least the 17th century; the metaphor suggests a single, well-aimed action producing two results, like a stone striking two birds.
Notes
Positive, pragmatic tone about efficiency—one action yields two benefits. Used in casual and business contexts. Some avoid it due to the violent imagery; “two for one” can be softer.
Examples
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I’ll pick up groceries on the way to the gym to kill two birds with one stone.
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By taking an online course during my commute, I can kill two birds with one stone.
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We scheduled the dentist appointment on the same day as the checkup to kill two birds with one stone.
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If you call your grandmother while you’re driving to the airport, you’ll kill two birds with one stone.
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Let’s test the new feature and train the team at the same time to kill two birds with one stone.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually appears as an infinitive or clause: “to kill two birds with one stone,” “kills/killed…,” “killing…” Word order is fixed; “with one stone” is essential.
Synonyms
- get two birds with one stone
- kill two birds with one shot
- get two for one
- accomplish two things at once
- hit two targets with one shot
Antonyms
- take the long way
- miss the mark
- waste time