Possible Clues:

• Tries hard with a cereal
• Gives the old college try
• Makes an attempt; takes a chance
• Tries to laugh at air rising with oxygen
• Makes an attempt, but has not finished pudding
• Gives it a shot
• In modern jargon, makes an effort, gives it a shot
• Makes an attempt (at)
• Tries it
• Attempts to stop a criminal