2,4-Diethylbenzoic acid is primarily used in the synthesis of organic compounds, particularly in the production of specialty chemicals and intermediates for pharmaceuticals. It serves as a key building block in the development of certain drugs, where its structure is modified to create active pharmaceutical ingredients. Additionally, it finds application in the manufacturing of liquid crystals, which are essential components in display technologies such as LCDs. Its chemical properties also make it useful in research and development for creating novel materials with specific functionalities.