Homonyms, semantic divergence and valency

The definition of a lexeme is generally based on a number of parameters is ensure his discreteness versus other lexemes that may share some but not all of its features. This leads to the semantically based distinction of xynonyms, antonyms, etc. However, frequently the shades of meaning that differentiate lexical items are subtle and the distinction between genuine polysemy and mere connotational divergence becomes a difficult exercise. This paper discusses a number of non-semantic parameters that may be considered to resolve this dilemma and in particular argues for valency to be included in the analysis of lexemes that have this feature.