Surely vs. Surly — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 3, 2024
"Surely" is an adverb meaning "certainly" or "undoubtedly," used to express confidence, while "surly" is an adjective describing a person's moody or rude demeanor.
Difference Between Surely and Surly
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Surely," used to affirm or agree with something in a confident manner, enhances a statement's credibility. Whereas "surly" describes someone's grumpy or ill-tempered nature, often indicating hostility.
When someone says, "Surely, you must agree," they are reinforcing their point, expecting agreement. On the other hand, describing someone as "surly" suggests their unfriendly or intimidating behavior.
"Surely" can also express surprise or irony in a sentence, depending on the context, while "surly" consistently conveys negativity and is used to critique someone’s attitude.
While "surely" can soften a request or assertion, making it seem less direct or confrontational, "surly" is straightforward and critical, highlighting the unpleasantness of someone's manner or disposition.
Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adverb
Adjective
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Definition
Certainly or undoubtedly
Bad-tempered, unfriendly
Tone
Confident, affirmative
Negative, hostile
Usage in Sentence
"Surely you can see my point."
"He responded with a surly glance."
Emotional Connotation
Often positive or neutral
Generally negative
Compare with Definitions
Surely
Can introduce a statement that the speaker believes to be true.
Surely, we can do better than this.
Surly
Describes a person who is bad-tempered and unfriendly.
The surly waiter made us uncomfortable.
Surely
Can be rhetorical, used to persuade or convince.
Surely, this is the only sensible solution.
Surly
Can describe someone’s appearance as hostile.
He had a surly expression that scared off conversation.
Surely
Used to express certainty or inevitability.
Surely, you didn’t think I would forget your birthday!
Surly
Often associated with sullen or gruff behavior.
She gave a surly response to the cheerful greeting.
Surely
Often implies that something is obvious or recognized.
Surely, everyone knows the risks involved.
Surly
Indicates irritability or readiness to argue.
His surly attitude at meetings always creates tension.
Surely
Used to express hope that something is true.
Surely, we will meet again.
Surly
Used to characterize unpleasant interpersonal interactions.
His surly demeanor makes teamwork challenging.
Surely
"Surely" is a 1995 single by British pop group Five Star. The single was a U.S. only release, available in the UK as an import.
Surly
Sullenly ill-humored; gruff.
Surely
With confidence; unhesitatingly.
Surly
Threatening, as of weather conditions; ominous
Surly clouds filled the sky.
Surely
Undoubtedly; certainly
You surely can't be serious.
Surly
(Obsolete) Arrogant; domineering.
Surely
Without fail
Slowly but surely spring returns.
Surly
Irritated, bad-tempered, unfriendly.
Surely
Without fail.
Slowly but surely
Surly
Threatening, menacing, gloomy.
The surly weather put us all in a bad mood.
Surely
Certainly, undoubtedly.
Surely, you must be joking.
Surly
(obsolete) Lordly, arrogant, supercilious.
Surely
With confidence.
His feet were planted surely on the ground.
Surly
(obsolete) In an arrogant or supercilious manner.
Surely
In a sure or certain manner; certainly; infallibly; undoubtedly; assuredly.
In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
He that created something out of nothing, surely can raise great things out of small.
Surly
Arrogant; haughty.
Surely
Without danger; firmly; steadly; securely.
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely.
Surly
Gloomily morose; ill-natured, abrupt, and rude; severe; sour; crabbed; rough; sullen; gloomy; as, a surly groom; a surly dog; surly language; a surly look.
Surely
Definitely or positively (`sure' is sometimes used informally for `surely');
The results are surely encouraging
She certainly is a hard worker
It's going to be a good day for sure
They are coming, for certain
They thought he had been killed sure enough
He'll win sure as shooting
They sure smell good
Sure he'll come
Surly
Rough; dark; tempestuous.
Now softened into joy the surly storm.
Surly
Inclined to anger or bad feelings with overtones of menace;
A surly waiter
An ugly frame of mind
Common Curiosities
What kind of behavior does "surly" describe?
"Surly" describes behavior that is unfriendly, rude, and often hostile.
What does "surly" mean?
"Surly" is an adjective describing someone who is moody, unfriendly, or irritable.
What does "surely" mean?
"Surely" is an adverb used to express confidence or certainty in a statement.
Can "surely" and "surly" be used interchangeably?
No, "surely" and "surly" cannot be used interchangeably as they have different meanings and functions in language.
How can "surely" change the tone of a sentence?
"Surely" can make a sentence sound more persuasive, hopeful, or certain, depending on the context.
Is "surely" formal or informal?
"Surely" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, typically to strengthen a statement or question.
Can "surely" be used sarcastically?
Yes, "surely" can be used sarcastically to imply that something is less certain than someone claims.
What emotional tone does "surly" carry?
"Surly" carries a negative emotional tone, indicating bad temper or unfriendliness.
How does the usage of "surely" affect communication?
Using "surely" can affect communication by adding a layer of certainty or persuasion, influencing how a message is received.
In what situations is it appropriate to describe someone as "surly"?
It is appropriate to describe someone as "surly" when they are displaying consistently unfriendly or hostile behavior.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
