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Region: General | Usage example: By hosting the meeting and training, we killed two birds with one stone.

Kill two birds with one stone

Meaning

Accomplish two objectives with a single action.

Usage

Used to highlight efficient multitasking.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Hunting metaphor dating back to ancient times.

Recorded in 17th-century English texts and still widely used.

Related Idioms

Get two birds with one stone

Achieve two things with one effort.

Caught with your pants down

Surprised while unprepared.

Roll with the punches

Adapt to difficulties gracefully.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.