In Singapore / Malaysia, when we say "jia lut", it would mean that it is difficult and maybe in trouble now. The expression is believed to be originated from Hokkien. Literally, "jia' is a v.t i.e. "to eat" whereas. "lut" is "strength". So the combined expression would convey a state of "difficulty" or to a lesser extent " having some trouble now"
by steurope February 26, 2010
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