The phrase "try to attain by artifice" can also be expressed using various synonyms. One possible word is "manipulate," which means to handle or control something or someone in an unfair or deceitful manner. Another synonym could be "deceive," which indicates a conscious effort to mislead someone into believing something false. "Trick" and "dupe" are words that both convey the idea of luring or fooling someone into doing something they wouldn't do otherwise. Similarly, "coax" and "persuade" express the act of convincing someone to do something through subtle or forceful means. Overall, there are many synonyms that relate to the concept of trying to attain something through deceit and cunning.