در ۱۵ ثانیه
- Achieve two goals with one action.
- Highlights efficiency and cleverness.
- Originated from ancient hunting/mythology.
- Common in everyday conversation.
معنی
انجام دو کار با یک اقدام. تصور کنید دو کار برای انجام دادن دارید. شما یک راه هوشمندانه برای اتمام هر دو در همان زمان پیدا می کنید.
مثالهای کلیدی
3 از 12Texting a friend about your day
I managed to pick up groceries and drop off that package for you on my way home. Totally killed two birds with one stone!
I managed to pick up groceries and drop off that package for you on my way home. Totally achieved two things with one action!
Instagram caption for a productive day
Hit the gym this morning and listened to a whole podcast episode. Killing two birds with one stone! 💪 #productivity #fitnessgoals
Went to the gym this morning and listened to a whole podcast episode. Achieving two things with one action! 💪 #productivity #fitnessgoals
Email to a colleague about scheduling
I've scheduled the project review for Tuesday afternoon. This way, Sarah can attend before her flight, and we can finalize the Q3 budget. It really kills two birds with one stone.
I've scheduled the project review for Tuesday afternoon. This way, Sarah can attend before her flight, and we can finalize the Q3 budget. It really achieves two things with one action.
زمینه فرهنگی
This idiom's longevity speaks to a universal human appreciation for cleverness and efficiency. Its origins likely trace back to ancient times, possibly involving hunting or mythology, reflecting early human ingenuity. The phrase persists because it vividly captures the satisfaction of accomplishing multiple goals with minimal effort, a value that resonates across cultures and eras.
The 'One Action' is Key
Remember, the magic is in the *single* action. If you have to do two completely separate things, it doesn't count. Think 'one effort, two results'.
Sound Like a Pro
In professional settings, use it to highlight smart planning. 'By consolidating these reports, we kill two birds with one stone: saving time and ensuring consistency.'
در ۱۵ ثانیه
- Achieve two goals with one action.
- Highlights efficiency and cleverness.
- Originated from ancient hunting/mythology.
- Common in everyday conversation.
What It Means
You've probably heard people say they "killed two birds with one stone." It's a super common way to describe being incredibly efficient. It means you managed to achieve two separate goals with a single action or effort. It’s like hitting two targets with one arrow, or, well, one stone! It carries a vibe of cleverness and smart planning. You feel pretty good about yourself when you manage this kind of multitasking magic. It's a little win for your day.
Origin Story
This idiom is old, really old! Its roots likely go back to ancient times, possibly even Greek mythology. The story often told is about the hero Daedalus. He was trying to escape Crete. He supposedly threw a stone that hit two birds, killing them both. Another theory links it to hunting practices where a single action might inadvertently catch or kill multiple prey. It’s a classic example of folk wisdom that stuck around because it’s so visually descriptive. Imagine hunters back then, feeling pretty pleased with such a lucky shot!
How To Use It
Use this phrase when you've successfully combined two tasks into one action. It's perfect for highlighting your efficiency. You can use it in conversation, emails, or even social media captions. It shows you're a problem-solver. It's a way to brag a little (in a good way!) about your cleverness. Think of it as your secret weapon for productivity.
Real-Life Examples
- I finished my report and updated the company's database in one go. I really killed two birds with one stone today!
- I decided to listen to an educational podcast while I exercised. Talk about killing two birds with one stone.
- My commute takes me past the post office, so I dropped off the package on my way to work. Killed two birds with one stone there.
- I'm going to the grocery store now, and I'll pick up your dry cleaning on the way back. Killing two birds with one stone!
- We scheduled the client meeting right after our team sync. It killed two birds with one stone, saving us travel time.
When To Use It
Use kill two birds with one stone when you want to emphasize efficiency and clever multitasking. It's great for situations where you've cleverly managed to accomplish two things simultaneously. This could be in work projects, daily chores, or even planning a social outing. It’s a positive phrase, so use it when you feel a sense of accomplishment. It’s perfect for sharing a small success story. Did you manage to get that promotion *and* impress the CEO with one presentation? Go you!
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase if the two tasks accomplished are unrelated or if the connection feels forced. It’s also not ideal for very serious or somber situations. If you accidentally caused harm while trying to be efficient, this phrase wouldn't fit. It’s also a bit too informal for extremely formal business proposals or legal documents. Imagine telling a judge you "killed two birds with one stone" by speeding and getting a ticket for expired tags – probably not the best impression! It's best used for positive, relatable achievements.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake is using a literal interpretation, which is, frankly, a bit gruesome! People sometimes get confused and think it means literally harming two birds. Another error is using it in situations where only one task was *really* completed, or the second was a side effect rather than a planned outcome. It’s also sometimes misused when the two tasks are completely separate and require distinct efforts. The key is one action, two results.
- ✗ I killed two birds with one stone by cleaning my room and then watching TV. (Watching TV isn't an action that cleans a room!)
- ✓ I killed two birds with one stone by cleaning my room and listening to an audiobook. (The cleaning action happens while you're also engaged with the audiobook).
Similar Expressions
There are many ways to say you're being efficient!
Multitasking: This is a broader term for doing multiple things at once.Getting a bang for your buck: This focuses more on getting good value for money or effort.Two for the price of one: This implies a deal or bargain, often commercial.Efficiently combining tasks: This is a more formal way to say it.Synergy: In business, this means combined effort is greater than the sum of individual efforts. Sounds fancy, right?
Memory Trick
Picture yourself throwing a single, perfectly aimed stone. It hits a tree branch, and two birds sitting there fall off! You only threw the stone once, but you got two birds. Easy peasy! Or, think of a video game power-up that lets you defeat two enemies with one special move. Boom! Double points!
Quick FAQ
- Q: Does it mean I actually hurt birds?
A: No, absolutely not! It's purely figurative. The 'birds' represent tasks or goals, not actual animals. It's an old saying, and the imagery is just for effect.
- Q: Can I use it for negative outcomes?
A: Generally, no. It implies a clever, positive achievement. Using it for something negative would be confusing or sound sarcastic. Best to stick to positive multitasking wins!
نکات کاربردی
This is a very common and versatile idiom, generally considered informal. While it can be used in semi-formal business contexts, avoid it in highly formal writing or speeches. The key is that a single action should lead to two distinct, positive outcomes; otherwise, the idiom doesn't fit.
The 'One Action' is Key
Remember, the magic is in the *single* action. If you have to do two completely separate things, it doesn't count. Think 'one effort, two results'.
Sound Like a Pro
In professional settings, use it to highlight smart planning. 'By consolidating these reports, we kill two birds with one stone: saving time and ensuring consistency.'
Avoid Gruesome Imagery!
Never, ever use this phrase to describe literally harming animals. It's purely figurative! Misunderstanding this can lead to awkward or offensive situations.
A Universal Love for Efficiency
This idiom resonates across cultures because the idea of being clever and efficient is admired everywhere. It taps into a fundamental human desire to make the most of our time and energy.
It's a Compliment!
When someone uses this phrase about you or your actions, take it as praise for your resourcefulness and smart thinking. It’s a little nod to your cleverness.
مثالها
12I managed to pick up groceries and drop off that package for you on my way home. Totally killed two birds with one stone!
I managed to pick up groceries and drop off that package for you on my way home. Totally achieved two things with one action!
Shows how the phrase is used to describe completing two errands during a single trip.
Hit the gym this morning and listened to a whole podcast episode. Killing two birds with one stone! 💪 #productivity #fitnessgoals
Went to the gym this morning and listened to a whole podcast episode. Achieving two things with one action! 💪 #productivity #fitnessgoals
Used to highlight a smart combination of leisure and self-improvement.
I've scheduled the project review for Tuesday afternoon. This way, Sarah can attend before her flight, and we can finalize the Q3 budget. It really kills two birds with one stone.
I've scheduled the project review for Tuesday afternoon. This way, Sarah can attend before her flight, and we can finalize the Q3 budget. It really achieves two things with one action.
Demonstrates a professional, yet slightly informal, use in explaining a decision.
By streamlining our onboarding process, we not only reduced new hire ramp-up time but also improved initial feedback scores. We effectively killed two birds with one stone.
By streamlining our onboarding process, we not only reduced new hire ramp-up time but also improved initial feedback scores. We effectively achieved two things with one action.
Used in a professional context to showcase problem-solving skills and efficiency.
Going to the supermarket now, need anything? I can grab your mail from the post office on the way back.
Going to the supermarket now, need anything? I can grab your mail from the post office on the way back.
This is an example of *describing* the situation where the idiom *could* be used, not using the idiom itself.
This new software update allows us to improve security while also enhancing user interface speed. It's a great way to kill two birds with one stone.
This new software update allows us to improve security while also enhancing user interface speed. It's a great way to achieve two things with one action.
Shows a practical application in a technical context.
✗ I went birdwatching and killed two birds with one stone.
✗ I went birdwatching and literally killed two birds with one stone.
This is incorrect because it implies actual harm to animals, missing the figurative meaning.
✗ I decided to learn French and buy a new car; I killed two birds with one stone.
✗ I decided to learn French and buy a new car; I achieved two things with one action.
These actions are completely separate and require distinct efforts, not a single action achieving both.
I told my boss I needed a raise and simultaneously asked for a promotion. He was so confused, I think I killed two birds with one stone... or maybe just one very awkward bird.
I told my boss I needed a raise and simultaneously asked for a promotion. He was so confused, I think I achieved two things with one action... or maybe just one very awkward bird.
A lighthearted, slightly self-deprecating use of the idiom.
Finally finished that big report and organized my entire desk. Phew, killed two birds with one stone and now I can relax!
Finally finished that big report and organized my entire desk. Phew, achieved two things with one action and now I can relax!
Conveys a sense of accomplishment and the ability to finally unwind.
We're visiting my parents in Spain, and since they live near Barcelona, we're going to explore the city too. It's killing two birds with one stone!
We're visiting my parents in Spain, and since they live near Barcelona, we're going to explore the city too. It's achieving two things with one action!
Highlights how a single trip can serve multiple purposes.
By consolidating these two reports, we'll save time and ensure consistency. It’s a good way to kill two birds with one stone.
By consolidating these two reports, we'll save time and ensure consistency. It’s a good way to achieve two things with one action.
A concise way to justify a decision based on efficiency.
خودت رو بسنج
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The sentence implies successful completion, so 'managed' fits best. 'Tried' or 'wanted' suggest it didn't happen yet.
Choose the sentence that uses the idiom correctly.
Which sentence uses 'kill two birds with one stone' correctly?
Running and listening to music are often done simultaneously, making it a good example of one action (running) achieving two goals (exercise and entertainment).
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The sentence is already correct! The phrase 'kill two birds with one stone' is used correctly here to describe accomplishing two tasks simultaneously.
Translate this sentence into English.
While the literal translation is correct, the idiomatic English equivalent is 'kill two birds with one stone' to express this efficiency.
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
The idiom specifically uses the verb 'killed'. While 'hit' or 'caught' might seem logical, 'killed' is the established verb in this phrase.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The participle 'killing' needs a clearer subject or needs to be part of a clause. 'Which kills' connects the action (going to the gym and meeting) to the result (efficiency).
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This is the standard structure of the idiom, meaning to accomplish two things with a single action.
Choose the sentence that uses the idiom correctly and naturally.
Which sentence best uses 'kill two birds with one stone'?
This option correctly applies the idiom to a situation where a single action (the merger) achieved two distinct, positive outcomes (efficiency and growth).
Translate this sentence into English, capturing the idiomatic meaning.
The original sentence describes a situation where one action (the business trip) served two purposes (work and family visit). The English idiom perfectly captures this efficiency.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The phrase 'kill two birds with one stone' already implies efficiency. Adding 'for efficiency' is redundant and weakens the impact of the idiom.
Put the words in the correct order to form a natural-sounding sentence.
This sentence correctly uses the idiom and adds emphasis on the efficiency achieved, making it a well-rounded statement.
Choose the sentence that uses the idiom idiomatically and appropriately.
Which sentence is the most natural and correct use of the idiom?
This option correctly uses the idiom to describe a single trip (work visit) fulfilling two purposes (business and tourism) efficiently and positively.
🎉 امتیاز: /12
ابزارهای بصری یادگیری
Formality Spectrum for 'Kill Two Birds with One Stone'
Used among close friends, in casual chat.
Just grabbed coffee and mailed that package – killed two birds with one stone!
Common in everyday conversation, texts, social media.
I'm listening to a podcast while I exercise. Killing two birds with one stone!
Can be used in emails or discussions where a bit of personality is okay.
By scheduling the meeting right after lunch, we can kill two birds with one stone.
Generally avoided in highly formal settings.
This initiative allows us to streamline operations and reduce costs, effectively killing two birds with one stone.
Where You'll Hear 'Kill Two Birds with One Stone'
Running errands
Picked up dry cleaning on the way to the grocery store.
Work projects
Combined two reports into one comprehensive document.
Personal productivity
Exercising while listening to an audiobook.
Travel planning
Visiting family during a business trip.
Household chores
Cooking dinner while the laundry runs.
Socializing
Meeting a friend for coffee near the library.
Comparing Efficiency Idioms
Usage Categories for 'Kill Two Birds with One Stone'
Workplace Efficiency
- • Streamlining processes
- • Combining meetings
- • Completing multiple project tasks
Daily Life Hacks
- • Errand running
- • Commuting activities
- • Household multitasking
Personal Development
- • Learning while exercising
- • Networking during travel
- • Reading during downtime
Figurative vs. Literal
- • Always figurative
- • Never about harming animals
- • Focus on achieving goals
بانک تمرین
12 تمرینهاI needed to buy a gift and mail a letter, so I went to the mall. I really ___ to kill two birds with one stone.
The sentence implies successful completion, so 'managed' fits best. 'Tried' or 'wanted' suggest it didn't happen yet.
Which sentence uses 'kill two birds with one stone' correctly?
Running and listening to music are often done simultaneously, making it a good example of one action (running) achieving two goals (exercise and entertainment).
اشتباه را پیدا و اصلاح کنید:
I accomplished two tasks at once by killing two birds with one stone.
The sentence is already correct! The phrase 'kill two birds with one stone' is used correctly here to describe accomplishing two tasks simultaneously.
Ho finito il rapporto e ho riordinato la scrivania allo stesso tempo.
راهنماییها: Think about achieving two things with one effort., Consider synonyms for 'at the same time'.
While the literal translation is correct, the idiomatic English equivalent is 'kill two birds with one stone' to express this efficiency.
By going to the post office on my way to work, I really ___ two birds with one stone.
The idiom specifically uses the verb 'killed'. While 'hit' or 'caught' might seem logical, 'killed' is the established verb in this phrase.
اشتباه را پیدا و اصلاح کنید:
I'm going to the gym and then I'll meet you, killing two birds with one stone.
The participle 'killing' needs a clearer subject or needs to be part of a clause. 'Which kills' connects the action (going to the gym and meeting) to the result (efficiency).
کلمات را به ترتیب صحیح مرتب کنید:
روی کلمات بالا کلیک کنید تا جمله بسازید
This is the standard structure of the idiom, meaning to accomplish two things with a single action.
Which sentence best uses 'kill two birds with one stone'?
This option correctly applies the idiom to a situation where a single action (the merger) achieved two distinct, positive outcomes (efficiency and growth).
Il a profité de son voyage d'affaires pour rendre visite à sa famille.
راهنماییها: What two purposes does the trip serve?, How can you express achieving both goals efficiently?
The original sentence describes a situation where one action (the business trip) served two purposes (work and family visit). The English idiom perfectly captures this efficiency.
اشتباه را پیدا و اصلاح کنید:
By combining the marketing and sales meetings, we killed two birds with one stone for efficiency.
The phrase 'kill two birds with one stone' already implies efficiency. Adding 'for efficiency' is redundant and weakens the impact of the idiom.
کلمات را به ترتیب صحیح مرتب کنید:
روی کلمات بالا کلیک کنید تا جمله بسازید
This sentence correctly uses the idiom and adds emphasis on the efficiency achieved, making it a well-rounded statement.
Which sentence is the most natural and correct use of the idiom?
This option correctly uses the idiom to describe a single trip (work visit) fulfilling two purposes (business and tourism) efficiently and positively.
🎉 امتیاز: /12
آموزشهای ویدیویی
آموزشهای ویدیویی این عبارت را در یوتیوب پیدا کنید.
سوالات متداول
18 سوالLiterally, it would mean throwing one stone and hitting and killing two birds. However, this phrase is almost always used figuratively. It's an old expression, and the imagery is just a vivid way to describe efficiency.
No, the phrase itself is not offensive. It's a widely accepted idiom used to describe efficiency. However, be mindful of the context; using it in a very serious or somber situation might seem inappropriate.
Generally, no. The idiom implies a clever and positive achievement through efficiency. Using it for negative consequences would be confusing and misrepresent the intended meaning. Stick to positive examples of multitasking.
The 'action' can be anything from a physical task like driving somewhere, to a mental one like making a decision, or even a single event like attending a meeting. The key is that this one action leads to two separate, positive results.
Multitasking is doing multiple things simultaneously. 'Killing two birds with one stone' specifically highlights achieving *two distinct goals* with *one single action* or combined effort, emphasizing the cleverness and efficiency of that specific action.
You can use it in semi-formal business contexts, like an internal team email, if your workplace culture is relaxed. However, in highly formal reports or client communications, it might be considered too informal. Opt for phrases like 'achieving dual objectives' instead.
The vibe is generally positive, clever, and efficient. It suggests resourcefulness and smart planning. People often feel a sense of satisfaction or accomplishment when they use this phrase to describe their actions.
The core meaning is consistent across English-speaking regions. You might find slight variations in how often it's used or the specific contexts favored by different communities, but the fundamental concept remains the same.
The phrase works best when the two outcomes are logically connected to the single action, even if the tasks themselves seem different. If the connection feels completely random or forced, the idiom might not fit well.
While technically possible to extend the idea, 'killing three birds with one stone' is not a standard idiom and sounds awkward. It's best to stick to the original two-bird version for clarity and naturalness.
A very common mistake is interpreting it literally, imagining actual birds being harmed. Another error is using it when the 'action' is actually two separate actions, or when the second 'goal' wasn't really achieved.
Yes, many languages have idioms expressing efficiency or achieving multiple goals at once. For example, Spanish has 'matar dos pájaros de un tiro,' which is a direct translation and used similarly.
If you only accomplished one thing, you definitely did not 'kill two birds with one stone.' This phrase specifically requires two distinct results from one action. You'd just say you completed the task.
Absolutely! For example, if you go hiking (one action) and discover a beautiful new trail (goal 1) and get great exercise (goal 2), you killed two birds with one stone. It applies to any area of life where efficiency is key.
The exact origin is debated, but it likely stems from ancient times, possibly Greek mythology or early hunting practices. The idea of a single, skillful act yielding multiple rewards has been valued for centuries.
Yes, definitely! Text messages are a perfect place for informal idioms like this. It's a concise and colorful way to quickly communicate your efficiency to a friend or family member.
The idiom usually implies intentional planning, but it can sometimes apply if the second outcome was a fortunate, unexpected bonus of the main action. The key is still that one action led to two results.
Yes, it could be used sarcastically, especially if the 'two birds' weren't actually achieved, or if the action had negative consequences. For example, 'I tried to kill two birds with one stone by fixing the leak myself, but ended up flooding the basement!' The tone of voice would indicate sarcasm.
عبارات مرتبط
Get a bang for your buck
related topicTo get good value or results for the money or effort spent.
Both phrases relate to efficiency and getting good results, but 'bang for your buck' focuses on value received for resources invested, whereas 'kill two birds' focuses on achieving multiple goals with one action.
Multitask
related topicTo perform more than one task at the same time.
'Kill two birds with one stone' is a specific type of multitasking where one action yields two results, making it a more focused and idiomatic expression.
Two for the price of one
synonymGetting double the benefit or items for the cost of one.
This phrase is similar in that it implies getting extra benefit, but it often carries a commercial connotation of a deal or bargain, unlike the broader efficiency focus of 'kill two birds'.
Make the most of it
related topicTo use a situation or opportunity in the best possible way.
Both phrases relate to maximizing outcomes, but 'make the most of it' is about optimizing a single situation, while 'kill two birds' is about achieving multiple goals through one action.
Achieve dual objectives
formal versionTo successfully accomplish two separate aims or goals.
This is a more formal and less colorful way to express the same core idea of accomplishing two things, suitable for professional or academic writing where idioms might be avoided.
Synergy
related topicThe interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
While 'synergy' implies increased effectiveness through combined action, 'kill two birds with one stone' specifically focuses on achieving two distinct outcomes from a single input.
A stitch in time saves nine
related topicAddressing a problem promptly can prevent it from becoming worse.
This idiom also relates to efficiency and foresight, but it's about preventative action saving future effort, rather than accomplishing two tasks simultaneously with one current action.
