2,4-Dibromobutanoic acid is primarily used in organic synthesis as a building block for more complex chemical compounds. It serves as an intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, where it can be utilized to create active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with specific therapeutic properties. Additionally, it finds application in the synthesis of agrochemicals, contributing to the development of herbicides, pesticides, and other crop protection agents. Its bromine atoms make it a valuable reagent in halogenation reactions, enabling the introduction of bromine into organic molecules for further functionalization. This compound is also employed in research laboratories for studying reaction mechanisms and developing new synthetic methodologies.