[General] Are you rocky?

[vil]

Dear teachers,

Would you tell me your opinion regarding the interpretation of the expression in bold in the following sentences?

“I say, old chap, don’t think me a beast, but are you at all – er – er – rocky? I mean – if I can be of any service, don’t hesitate!”

Are you rocky? = Are you in reduced circumstances?

Thanks for your efforts.

Regards,

V

 

[apex2000]

Did you intend beast, not best?
I've not heard that expression before, but it may, just may be related to sexuality.

 

[opa6x57]

There is a phrase, I've heard used in first person. "My wife and I have hit a rocky patch." The speaker is indicating that he and his wife are having problems. The nature of the problems are unspecified. They may be having relationship problems. They may be having problems financially. They may be having problems in the bedroom.

I have never heard an individual being asked if he were 'rocky' as in the original question.

To me, the question would be phrased:
"Are you having problems?"
"Are you in some kind of trouble?"
"Are you in some kind of a bind?"

I doubt I would use:
"Are you in a rocky patch?"

 

[Tdol]

I have heard 'Are things rocky', so I think Opa6x57's interpretation is likely to be right.

 

[vil]

In my poor opinion "-er-er" is the wanting, full of suggestion, expression (namely "things").

Thank you for your kindness.

V.

 

[opa6x57]

In my poor opinion "-er-er" is the wanting, full of suggestion, expression (namely "things").

Thank you for your kindness.

V.

Probably not. '-er-er' is a linguistic filler. Read this excellent article about them:

Why do we say 'um', 'er', or 'ah' when we hesitate in speaking? ? The Register

To me, the speaker is unsure of how to ask whether the person is in need of assistance. The "-er-er" is more of a delaying tactic.

That's my opinion.
=========================
Not a teacher. 53 year old American.

 

[Tdol]

The er-er suggests that the person iis trying to be tactful and delicate about broaching a very sensitive topic, using the unusual rocky adds to the effect IMO. I think the person has put the question very well.