Question

What does it mean to "kill two birds with one stone"?

• A. To hunt successfully
• B. To achieve two goals with a single action
• C. To fail at two tasks simultaneously
• D. To cause an accident

Answer 1

Answer:

B. To achieve two goals with a single action

Understanding the Idiom: "Kill two birds with one stone"

• This common English idiom signifies the act of achieving two positive outcomes or solving two problems simultaneously with a single effort or action.
• The phrase implies efficiency and resourcefulness, as one action yields double the benefit.
• For instance, if you visit the bank and then the grocery store on the same trip, you are "killing two birds with one stone" by completing two errands in one outing.

Origin and Usage

• The idiom is believed to have originated from a literal scenario where a skilled hunter could strike down two birds with a single throw of a stone or projectile.
• It is a widely recognized and frequently used idiom in both formal and informal English communication.
• It emphasizes the concept of multitasking or optimizing efforts to maximize results.

Related Concepts & Similar Idioms for Competitive Exams

• Efficiency: The idiom directly relates to the concept of performing tasks in the most effective and least wasteful manner.
• Synergy: Although not a direct synonym, synergy (where the combined effect is greater than the sum of individual effects) can sometimes be a byproduct of such actions.
• Similar idioms/phrases:
  • "Hit two targets with one arrow."
  • "Solve two problems at once."
  • "Get more bang for your buck." (Focuses on getting more value for money/effort)
  • "Two birds with one stone" is often contrasted with inefficient or wasteful actions.
• Understanding idioms is crucial for English language sections in competitive exams, as they test comprehension of non-literal meanings.