Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of fluorinated pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. Its trifluoromethyl ketone group enables unique reactivity in condensation and cyclization reactions, making it valuable in constructing heterocyclic scaffolds. Also employed in agrochemical research for designing bioactive molecules with improved metabolic stability and lipophilicity.