try as I might

USAGE SUMMARY

"Try as I might" is a perfectly acceptable phrase to use in written English.
It is used to express the idea that despite one's greatest effort, something may not be accomplished. For example, "I tried my hardest to get the job, but try as I might, I just wasn't the best fit for the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Try as I might, I couldn't remember.

The New Yorker

Try as I might, I rarely got him to laugh.

The New Yorker

Try as I might, nothing came to me.

The New Yorker

Try as I might, I didn't croak, I apologize.

The New York Times

"My whole life, try as I might, I never fit".

The New York Times - Health

Try as I might, I couldn't pass the TOEFL.

The New Yorker

Try as I might, I can't understand this.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Try as I might, I just can't hate it.

The Guardian - Tech

Try as I might I can't see it being overtaken.

The Guardian - Film

Try as I might, I can't shake the Gatsby motif.

The Guardian - Film

Try as I might, I can't square the circle.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try as I might", consider the tone of your writing. It can convey determination, resignation, or even a hint of self-deprecation, depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "try as I might" when the effort was minimal or half-hearted. The phrase implies a significant investment of energy and resources, and using it inappropriately can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try as I might" functions as an introductory conjunction phrase, setting up a contrast. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound. It is often followed by a statement indicating a failure to achieve a desired outcome despite effort.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "try as I might" is a grammatically correct conjunction phrase used to introduce a situation where effort was exerted but a desired outcome wasn't achieved. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's commonly found in news and media, maintaining a neutral register suitable for various contexts. While alternatives like "despite my best efforts" exist, "try as I might" effectively conveys determination alongside potential failure.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

despite my best efforts

This alternative emphasizes the effort expended, highlighting the contrast with the lack of success.

no matter how hard I tried

This emphasizes the degree of effort exerted, suggesting a persistent attempt.

however much I attempted

Similar to "no matter how hard I tried" but uses a slightly more formal tone.

although I gave it my all

Highlights complete dedication and commitment to the attempt.

even with my best shot

Suggests that the attempt was serious and well-prepared, but still unsuccessful.

for all my striving

Emphasizes the continuous and prolonged nature of the effort.

in spite of my endeavors

A more formal way of expressing that effort was made, without guaranteeing success.

though I exerted myself greatly

A stronger way to say the person gave a great effort.

with every ounce of my strength

Highlights the exhaustive and total commitment of resources to the task.

despite all I did

A more concise and general way of saying that effort was made without success.

FAQs

How can I use "try as I might" in a sentence?

You can use "try as I might" to show effort in a sentence. For example, "Try as I might, I couldn't finish the race."

What does "try as I might" mean?

"Try as I might" means that despite making a significant effort, you were unable to achieve a desired outcome.

What can I say instead of "try as I might"?

You can use alternatives like "despite my best efforts", "no matter how hard I tried", or "however much I attempted".

Is "try as I might" formal or informal?

"Try as I might" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.