Understanding idiomatic expressions is crucial for achieving a high score in the IELTS exam. One such expression is “Kill two birds with one stone”. In this article, we will delve into its meaning, usage, and how to incorporate it effectively in your IELTS preparation.
What Does “Kill Two Birds with One Stone” Mean?
The idiom “kill two birds with one stone” means to achieve two objectives with a single effort. It is often used when someone accomplishes more than one goal in a single action.
Achieving Two Goals with One Action
Related Keywords and Synonyms
Here are some related expressions and synonymous idioms:
- Achieve two things at once (verb phrase)
- Hit two targets with one shot (verb phrase)
- Double benefit (noun)
- Multitask (verb)
- Efficient (adjective)
- Dual purpose (noun)
Examples with Phonetic Transcription
- Achieve two things at once: /əˈtʃiːv tuː θɪŋz æt wʌns/
- By working remotely, she can achieve two things at once: save on commuting time and spend more time with her family.
- Hit two targets with one shot: /hɪt tuː ˈtɑːɡɪts wɪð wʌn ʃɒt/
- The marketing campaign was planned so well that it hit two targets with one shot: increased sales and brand awareness.
- Double benefit: /ˈdʌbl ˈbɛnɪfɪt/
- Joining the club offers a double benefit of networking and skill development.
- Multitask: /ˌmʌltiˈtɑːsk/
- Parents often need to multitask to manage their children’s schedules and their work.
- Efficient: /ɪˈfɪʃnt/
- Using public transport is efficient because it saves time and reduces pollution.
- Dual purpose: /ˈdjuːəl ˈpɜːpəs/
- The new smartphone has a dual purpose as a communication tool and a camera.
Analysis of Usage in IELTS
The idiom “kill two birds with one stone” can be used effectively across various parts of the IELTS exam, including Writing, Speaking, Reading, and Listening.
IELTS Writing Task 2 (Opinion Essay) Examples
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Topic: Discuss the advantages of working from home.
- By working from home, employees can kill two birds with one stone, as they can save on commuting costs and spend more quality time with their families. This not only boosts their productivity but also improves their work-life balance.
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Topic: Is it better to live in a big city or a small town?
- Choosing to reside in a suburban area often allows individuals to kill two birds with one stone: they can enjoy the tranquility of a small town while still being close enough to the city for work and other amenities.
IELTS Speaking Part 2 (Cue Card) Examples
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Describe a situation where you solved two problems at once:
- Last year, I enrolled in a cooking class to learn healthier meal options, and I ended up making new friends there. This way, I killed two birds with one stone: improved my diet and expanded my social circle.
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Talk about a time when you were very efficient:
- By planning my day meticulously, I was able to attend my friend’s wedding and complete my office project on time. It was a perfect example of how I managed to kill two birds with one stone.
Combining the Idiom with Other Words
- By studying online courses, you can kill two birds with one stone: enhance your career skills and save on education costs.
- Scheduling a meeting during lunch allows you to kill two birds with one stone: discuss important matters and eat simultaneously.
- Traveling for a conference can help you kill two birds with one stone: gain professional insights and explore a new city.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Make hay while the sun shines: Utilize the opportunity when it is available.
- Hit it out of the park: To perform exceptionally well.
- A win-win situation: A scenario where all parties benefit.
- Burning the candle at both ends: Engaging in activities that are tiring or exhaustive.
- Two sides of the same coin: Different aspects of a single situation.
- A blessing in disguise: A good thing that initially seemed bad.
- Throw caution to the wind: Take risks.
- The best of both worlds: Benefitting from two different opportunities.
- A penny saved is a penny earned: Saving money is as valuable as earning it.
- Break the ice: Alleviate nervousness in a social setting.
Conclusion
Understanding and using the idiom “kill two birds with one stone” effectively can add depth to your language skills in the IELTS exam. Whether in writing tasks or speaking parts, this expression can demonstrate a high level of proficiency and nuanced understanding of English. Practice using this idiom and related expressions to enhance your responses and achieve a higher band score.
Practice Links for Further Reading
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