This was a very popular saying among US Military personel around the late 60's and early 70's. It was used very heavily by soldiers in Vietnam, Republic of. Depending on how it was used, it could be used as a question, a filler, or a rebuke. Excellent examples of its usage can be heard in the movie "Hamburger Hill" starring Dillon McDermot.
Dam man! You just tripped all over my shit! How you gonna' act!
Yo man...when you get so short you need a step ladder to climb up on a dime...how you gonna act?
Yo man...when you get so short you need a step ladder to climb up on a dime...how you gonna act?
by Streamwalker October 21, 2004