ENGLISH
REFERENCE

two birds with one stone

idiom
Meaning

Any two things that were performed or completed at the same time by one action.


Origin

disputed origin

From the phrase kill two birds with one stone.

Examples
SIMPLE

I walk to work to exercise and save money, killing two birds with one stone.

CONTEXTUAL

I can pick up the kids from school on my way to the grocery store, killing two birds with one stone.

COMPLEX

By combining the annual board meeting with the charity gala, the organizers managed to kill two birds with one stone, saving both time and resources.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a little bird told me

    I received the information from a source which I am not prepared to disclose.

  2. 02

    as best one can

    In the best possible way, given one's circumstances and abilities.

  3. 03

    as far as one knows

    To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.

  4. 04

    back to square one

    Located back at the start, as after a dead end or failure.

  5. 05

    beast with two backs

    Two people united in sexual intercourse in the missionary position.

  6. 06

    beat as one

    To share the same feelings.

  7. 07

    become one flesh

    To join together in marriage; to develop a unifying bond as a result of marrying.

  8. 08

    bird in the bosom

    A secret pledge that one makes for another.

Last updated April 17, 2026