The keyword phrase "september 11th this year" functions primarily as a noun phrase. In this capacity, it acts as a single grammatical unit that names a specific entity: a particular calendar date. As a noun, it can serve as the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb, or the object of a preposition.
While its core identity is nominal, the phrase's grammatical function is determined by its context within a sentence. It can also perform modifying roles. When used to answer the question "when?" an action takes place, it functions as an adverbial phrase of time (e.g., "The tribute will be held september 11th this year."). When used to specify or describe another noun, it functions as an adjectival phrase (e.g., "The september 11th this year ceremony is scheduled for dawn."). This flexibility is common for phrases denoting time.
For the purpose of establishing the main point of an article, classifying the phrase as a noun phrase is the most crucial step. This allows the date itself to be the central subject about which claims are made and details are provided. Treating it as a noun positions the date as the primary topic, rather than as a temporal modifier for a different subject, thus providing a stronger and more direct thematic focus.
