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fare due cose in una
/ˈfa.re ˈdu.e ˈkɔ.ze in ˈu.na/
to do two things at once
Ho fatto due cose in una: ho cucinato e pulito la cucina.
I did two things at once: I cooked and cleaned the kitchen.
informal
To accomplish two tasks or objectives simultaneously, often efficiently.
Con questo attrezzo puoi fare due cose in una: tagliare e sbucciare la frutta.
With this tool, you can do two things at once: cut and peel the fruit.
Ha fatto due cose in una: ha aiutato la sorella e finito i compiti.
He did two things at once: helped his sister and finished his homework.
Commonly used in everyday Italian to describe multitasking or efficiency.
Collocations
fare due cose in una volta solato do two things at once, in one gofare due cose in una mossato do two things at once, in one move
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use this phrase
Use 'fare due cose in una' when you want to emphasize how someone managed to complete two tasks efficiently in a single action. It’s a great way to compliment someone’s resourcefulness.
Gold Rule
Avoid literal translation
Do not translate this phrase word-for-word. Instead, use 'to do two things at once' or 'to multitask' in English.
Word Origin
The phrase combines 'fare' (to do/make) + 'due cose' (two things) + 'in una' (in one). It reflects the Latin-derived structure of Italian, where 'in una' is a contraction of 'in una sola' (in one single). The concept of multitasking is universal but this phrasing is distinctly Italian in its idiomatic usage.
Usage Notes
This phrase is informal and conversational. It is often used to praise someone's efficiency or to describe a clever solution that combines two tasks. Avoid using it in formal or professional contexts where precision is required.
Word Breakdown
fare
to do/make
verbdue cose
two things
noun phrasein una
in one (single action)
prepositional phraseDizionario Italiano-Inglese