Translation guide
This English idiom means to have more than one plan, resource, or skill to fall back on. In Japanese, there is no direct equivalent idiom, so the idea is expressed through phrases about having alternatives, backup plans, or multiple skills.
Expressing that you have a backup plan or another option available
Literally 'have a second means'. A straightforward way to say you have an alternative plan.
もし失敗しても、第二の手段があるから大丈夫だ。
Even if I fail, I have a second plan, so it's okay.
Literally 'to take out insurance'. Used metaphorically to mean having a backup or safety net.
Expressing that someone has more than one skill to rely on
There is no common Japanese idiom that directly translates 'have two strings to one's bow'. Using a literal translation like 弓に二本の弦を持つ would not be understood. Instead, use the phrases above depending on whether you mean a backup plan or multiple skills.
念のため、別の会場も予約して保険をかけておいた。
Just in case, I booked another venue as a backup.
A rare, literary phrase meaning 'to shoot a second arrow', i.e., to have a follow-up plan. Not common in everyday speech.
彼は常に二の矢を継ぐ準備をしている。
He is always ready with a backup plan.
Idiom meaning 'to wear two pairs of straw sandals', i.e., to hold two jobs or roles at the same time. Implies having multiple skills or income sources.
彼は会社員と作家の二足のわらじを履いている。
He works both as an office worker and a writer.
Proverb meaning 'many skills, no skill' – a jack of all trades is master of none. Used to caution against spreading oneself too thin, but can be referenced when discussing having multiple skills.
多芸は無芸というけど、彼は本当に何でもできる。
They say a jack of all trades is master of none, but he really can do anything.