tried, made an effort
説得に努めた。
I tried to persuade them.
彼は自分のふるまいを新しい境遇に合わせるよう努めた。
He tried to adapt his behavior to his new circumstances.
彼は世界政府という考えの普及に努めた。
He worked to promote the idea of a world government.
私は彼に私の潔白を信じさせようと努めた。
I tried to convince him of my innocence.