The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word HEM
H
E
M
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "try to attract attention" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case try to attract attention = hem.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does HEM mean?
HEM noun- An utterance or sound of the voice like "hem", often indicative of hesitation or doubt, sometimes used to call attention.
- To make the sound expressed by the word hem; to hesitate in speaking.
- Used to fill in the gap of a pause with a vocalized sound.
- The border of an article of clothing doubled back and stitched together to finish the edge and prevent it from fraying.
- A rim or margin of something.
- In sheet metal design, a rim or edge folded back on itself to create a smooth edge and to increase strength or rigidity.
- (in sewing) To make a hem.
- : To put hem on an article of clothing, to edge or put a border on something.
- : To surround something or someone in a confining way.
- Them (now only in unstressed position following a consonant).