* It's a misheard or misremembered phrase. There might be a similar phrase with a clear meaning that's been slightly altered.
* It's a specific idiom or slang term. It could be a phrase used in a particular community or context.
* It's a creative expression. Someone might have invented this phrase to express a specific idea or feeling.
To understand the meaning, you need more context. Please provide the source of the quote or the situation where you heard it. For example:
* Who said it?
* What was the topic of the conversation?
* What was the overall message being conveyed?
With more context, I can help you decipher the meaning of "small choice in rotten."