try as (one) may

try as (one) may

No matter how hard one tries; despite one's best efforts. Try as I may, I just couldn't find a solution to the problem. Struggle all you want, Mr. Bond. Try as you may, you'll never break free from those titanium shackles!

See also: may, try

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

try as I may

 and try as I might

Cliché a phrase that introduces an expression of regret or failure. Bill: Try as I may, I cannot get this thing put together right. Andy: Did you read the instructions? Rachel: Wow! This place is a mess! Mother: Try as I might, I can't get Andrew to clean up after himself.

See also: may, try

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.