Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of herbicides and fungicides. Its nitrile and hydroxyl functional groups allow for further chemical modifications, making it valuable in building complex organic molecules. Commonly employed in reactions such as hydrolysis, reduction, and coupling processes to introduce aromatic and polar characteristics into target compounds. Also utilized in research for developing new bioactive molecules with potential antimicrobial or plant growth regulatory properties.