near the knuckle

US /nɪr ðə ˈnʌkəl/
UK /nɪr ðə ˈnʌkəl/
"near the knuckle" picture
1.

almost offensive or rude, especially because of being sexual or involving rude humor

:
His jokes were a bit near the knuckle for the family gathering.
The comedian's routine was quite near the knuckle, but the audience loved it.