Translation guide
This English idiom means achieving two goals with a single action. Japanese has several equivalent proverbs and expressions, ranging from common sayings to more literal or niche phrases.
Expressing the idea of solving two problems or gaining two benefits with one action.
The most direct and common equivalent. Literally 'one stone, two birds'. Used in both casual and formal contexts.
自転車通勤は健康にも節約にもなるから、一石二鳥だね。
Commuting by bike is good for your health and saves money, so it's killing two birds with one stone.
A more formal, literary expression meaning 'one action, two gains'. Often used in writing or speeches.
この政策は経済成長と環境保護を同時に実現する一挙両得の策だ。
This policy is a killing-two-birds-with-one-stone measure that achieves both economic growth and environmental protection.
A slightly more verbose version of 一石二鳥, literally 'to gain two birds with one stone'. Less common but still understood.
この方法なら時間もお金も節約できて、まさに一石二鳥を得るようなものだ。
With this method, you can save both time and money—it's exactly like killing two birds with one stone.
Describing a single effort that fulfills two functions or needs.
A literal translation of the English idiom. Rarely used naturally; may sound awkward or foreign. Best avoided in favor of 一石二鳥.
This is a literal translation and not idiomatic Japanese. Use 一石二鳥 instead.
彼は一つの石で二羽の鳥を殺そうとしている。
He's trying to kill two birds with one stone.
一石二鳥 is suitable for everyday conversation and most writing. 一挙両得 is more formal and often used in business or academic contexts.