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. (I want you to agree with me that Lisa will find a solution.)
• Surely this is against the law. (I want you to agree with me that it is against the law.)

Compare

It’s surely quicker if you have a computer.	It’s certainly quicker if you have a computer.
I think that it is quicker if you have a computer and I want you to agree.	I am certain that it is quicker if you have a computer.

We can use surely, especially in negative question forms, to show surprise:

• Surely you’re not going to take two weeks off work? (I am surprised that you’re going to take two weeks off.)
• Surely she’s not interested in a job like that? (I am surprised that she is interested in a job like that.)