The news is 'hardly' surprising. = The news is 'hardly' a surprise. [=the news is not surprising at all]
“Is this a new idea for a movie?” “'Hardly'! I've seen dozens of movies just like it.”
I could 'hardly' believe my eyes. [=it was difficult to believe what I was seeing]
(..) And my ax. You carry the fates of us all,little one. If this is indeed the will of the Council... ...then Gondor will see it done. -Frodo's not going anywhere without me. -lt is hardly possible to separate you... ...even when he is summoned to a secret Council and you are not. We're coming too! (..)2001 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
(..) Gandalf? What is it? Nothing,Frodo. Frodo! -Sam. -Bless you,you're awake! Sam has hardly left your side. We were that worried about you. Weren't we,Mr. Gandalf? By the skills of Lord Elrond,you're beginning to mend. Welcome to Rivendell,Frodo Baggins. -Bilbo! -Hello,Frodo,my lad. Bilbo. (..)2001 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring