for the life of

for the life of (one)

Despite one's best efforts; to any degree whatsoever. Often used in negative constructions. For the life of me, I can't remember where I left my keys! She couldn't understand for the life of her why people were so obsessed with celebrity gossip.
See also: life, of
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

for the life of (one)

Though trying hard: For the life of me I couldn't remember his name.
See also: life, of
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • mean (something) by (something)
  • mean by
  • change (one's) stripes
  • change one's stripes
  • change one's stripes/spots, cannot
  • a month of Sundays
  • take it with (one) (when one goes)
  • take it with one
  • anytime soon
  • have it both ways
References in periodicals archive
"The amount of premium you pay goes into the policy design, especially on a traditional policy because you know you have a fixed premium often for the life of the contract.
Turning the table: the 2001 mortality table promises to spawn new life product designs
For the life of every disciple casts a shadow across the lives of countless others, and each of our lives will either be an encouragement, inspiration, or guide for those who come after us.
Pass it on