Close to the bone

usgb
adjective

If a comment or remarks are too close to the bone, they are too personal, sensitive, or hurtful for someone.

His joke about her family was too close to the bone, and she felt offended.
Visual representation of "close to the bone" - If a comment or remarks are too close to the bone, they are too personal, sensitive, or hurtful for someone.

Often appears as...

  • too close to the bone
  • cutting too close to the bone

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "close to the bone"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Impact

Consider the listener's feelings when using 'close to the bone' because it may touch on personal issues.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
I didn't bring up his job loss; it felt too close to the bone.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Avoid in Formality

'Close to the bone' might be inappropriate in formal contexts due to its personal and sensitive nature.

Illustration for Avoid in Formality
In the interview, she steered clear of anything close to the bone.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Cultural Sensitivity

Be mindful of cultural differences; what's considered 'close to the bone' can vary widely.

Illustration for Cultural Sensitivity
His comments on politics were too close to the bone for that international meeting.
Visual representation of the word "Close to the bone"

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