Be cautious when using in diverse settings as it may be seen as culturally insensitive. I hesitated to tell that near the knuckle joke at the international conference.
Pro Tip 2/3
Audience Awareness
Consider your audience; this phrase suits an adult crowd more than a family setting. The comedian's near the knuckle humor was a hit in the club, but not at the family reunion.
Pro Tip 3/3
Tone of Voice
Often delivered with a knowing tone suggesting shared understanding of the edge it skirts. His near the knuckle comment was said with a wink, making us all laugh.