open sesame

• Formule magique utilisée pour obtenir l'accès à quelque chose, souvent pour désigner un moyen secret ou automatique d'ouvrir une porte ou d'entrer. Provient du conte d'Ali Baba et les quarante voleurs.

A magical phrase used to gain access to something, often referring to a secret or automatic way to open a door or gain entry. Originates from the tale of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves.

1. Magical commandB2informal

   A phrase used in the story of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves to open a secret door.

   Sésame, ouvre-toi

   • In the story, Ali Baba said 'Open Sesame' and the cave door opened.
   • The treasure was hidden behind a rock that only opened with the magic words 'Open Sesame'.
   • He whispered 'Open Sesame' but nothing happened.

2. Key or means of accessB2informal

   A key, password, or method that provides easy access to something.

   Sésame, ouvre-toi

   • A good education is the open sesame to many career opportunities.
   • The password was the open sesame to the secret files.
   • His charm was the open sesame to exclusive social circles.