In the following vocabulary question, select the word which is the closest synonym of the informal adjective "nifty", often used to describe something stylish, clever or very good.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your knowledge of informal English vocabulary. The word "nifty" is a casual adjective often used in everyday conversation, advertising and journalism. You are asked to choose the option that is closest in meaning to this word, so you must focus on its usual positive sense rather than guess from sound alone.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The key word is "nifty".
• Option A: dandy.
• Option B: obnoxious.
• Option C: grody.
• Option D: gross.
• We assume the question is about the most common meaning of "nifty" in modern informal English.

Concept / Approach:
"Nifty" is usually a positive word. It means neat, clever, stylish, attractive or very good. Something can be a nifty gadget, a nifty trick, or a nifty solution to a problem. Therefore, the correct synonym must also carry a positive and appreciative meaning. "Dandy" in informal usage means very good or excellent. The other options are strongly negative in tone, so they cannot be synonyms of a positive word like "nifty".

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the common uses of "nifty" in sentences such as "This is a nifty little tool" or "That was a nifty idea". The tone is clearly positive.Step 2: Check option A, "dandy". In informal English, "dandy" can mean very good or excellent, as in "That would be just dandy". This matches the tone and sense of "nifty".Step 3: Check option B, "obnoxious". This describes something or someone very unpleasant or offensive, which is the opposite of a compliment.Step 4: Check option C, "grody". Slang like "grody" suggests something disgusting or dirty, again clearly negative.Step 5: Check option D, "gross". In informal speech, "gross" often means very unpleasant or disgusting. This is also negative and does not fit.

Verification / Alternative check:
Try substituting each option into a sentence such as "This is a really nifty gadget". "This is a really dandy gadget" is understandable and stays positive. The sentences "This is a really obnoxious or grody or gross gadget" completely change the meaning and turn the remark into criticism. This confirms that only "dandy" is a true synonym in this context.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
"Obnoxious" expresses strong dislike. "Grody" and "gross" describe things that are dirty, unpleasant or disgusting. All of these words convey negative feelings, which clashes with the positive sense of "nifty". Therefore they cannot be accepted as synonyms here.

Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to rely on sound rather than meaning. "Nifty", "grody" and "gross" all sound like slang, but slang words can have opposite meanings. Always focus on the core dictionary meaning and typical usage rather than simply choosing another informal sounding word.

Final Answer:
The word that is closest in meaning to "nifty" is dandy, so option A is correct.