Try

earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something

melt (fat or lard) in order to separate out impurities

test the limits of

make an effort or attempt

take a sample of

put to the test, as for its quality, or give experimental use to

put on a garment in order to see whether it fits and looks nice

put on trial or hear a case and sit as the judge at the trial of

examine or hear (evidence or a case) by judicial process

give pain or trouble to