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The Daily Insight

How to spell surely

Author

John Parsons

Published Feb 23, 2026

Is it surely or surly?

As adverbs the difference between surly and surely

is that surly is (obsolete) in an arrogant or supercilious manner while surely is without fail.

What is correct spelling of surely?

Correct spelling for the English word “surely” is [ʃˈʊ͡əli], [ʃˈʊ‍əli], [ʃ_ˈʊə_l_i] (IPA phonetic alphabet).

How do you use surely?

We use the adverb surely to express a degree of certainty. It does not express as much certainty as definitely or certainly. When we use surely, we are hoping that our listener will agree with us: Lisa will surely find a solution to the problem.

What does surely mean?

1 : in a sure manner: a archaic : without danger or risk of injury or loss : safely. b(1) : with assurance : confidently answered quickly and surely. (2) : without doubt : certainly they will surely be heard from in the future— R. J. Lifton.