to exert oneself vigorously; try hard

He strove to make himself understood.

to make strenuous efforts toward any goal

to strive for success.

to contend in opposition, battle, or any conflict; compete.

to struggle vigorously, as in opposition or resistance

to strive against fate.

to rival; vie.

noun

endeavor , exertion , pain , strain , struggle , trouble , while , battle , contest , corrivalry , race , rivalry , strife , tug of war , war , warfare , conation , conatus

adjective

conative

verb

attempt , contend , contest , crusade , endeavor , strive , try , vie , work