一举两得
一举两得 (yī jǔ liǎng dé) literally means “one action two gains” and expresses “kill two birds with one stone”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy and action. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: yi ju liang de, yi ju liang de,一举两得 meaning, 一举两得 in english
Kill two birds with one stone
Pronunciation: yī jǔ liǎng dé
Literal meaning: One action two gains
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes one (一) action (举) yielding two (两) gains (得). It celebrates efficiency that achieves multiple objectives simultaneously. The phrase appeared in strategy texts praising tactics that accomplish several goals at once. It represents the ideal of maximizing returns from single efforts. Modern usage describes any action, decision, or approach that achieves multiple benefits from a single investment of time, money, or effort.
Examples
English: "Cycling to work saves money and improves health at the same time."
Chinese: 骑车上班既省钱又健身,一举两得。
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about strategy & action
出神入化
chū shén rù huà
Reach supernatural skill level
Learn more →
游刃有余
yóu rèn yǒu yú
Handle with ease; have skill to spare
Learn more →
万无一失
wàn wú yī shī
Absolutely sure; foolproof
Learn more →
密不透风
mì bù tòu fēng
Airtight; impenetrable
Learn more →
天罗地网
tiān luó dì wǎng
Inescapable net; dragnet
Learn more →
势在必行
shì zài bì xíng
Be imperative; must be done
Learn more →
稳扎稳打
wěn zhā wěn dǎ
Proceed steadily; consolidate before advancing
Learn more →
欲擒故纵
yù qín gù zòng
Give slack before tightening; let go to catch
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 一举两得 mean in English?
一举两得 (yī jǔ liǎng dé) literally translates to “One action two gains” and is used to express “Kill two birds with one stone”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 一举两得 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving kill two birds with one stone.
What is the pinyin for 一举两得?
The pinyin pronunciation for 一举两得 is “yī jǔ liǎng dé”.