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Phrase(s): 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.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs