The term 'tried hard' can be expressed in a variety of ways. The crossword solutions for this term include 'STRIVED' (7 letters), 'EXERTED' (7 letters), 'STROVE' (6 letters), 'STRIVEN' (7 letters), 'PUSHED' (6 letters), 'bore down' (8 letters), 'endeavored' (10 letters), and 'aimed for' (8 letters). All of these words refer to the idea of putting forth effort and trying one's best. 'STRIVING' and 'STRIVEN' refer to making an effort to reach a goal, while 'exerting' and 'PUSHING' suggest more physical effort. 'Bore down' implies a sustained effort over a period of time, and 'endeavoring' and 'aiming for' imply a specific goal or purpose.