1. (

• try ,
• seek ,
• attempt ,
• essay ,
• assay

) make an effort or attempt; "He tried to shake off his fears"; "The infant had essayed a few wobbly steps"; "The police attempted to stop the thief"; "He sought to improve himself"; "She always seeks to do good in the world" ;

2. (

• undertake ,
• set_about ,
• attempt

) enter upon an activity or enterprise ;

1. (

• attempted

) tried unsuccessfully; "attempted murder" ;