Ethyl 4-hydroxy-2-phenylquinoline-3-carboxylate is primarily utilized in the field of medicinal chemistry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various biologically active compounds. It serves as a building block for the development of potential pharmaceutical agents, particularly those targeting anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Its quinoline core structure is significant in drug design due to its ability to interact with biological targets, making it valuable for creating novel therapeutic molecules. Additionally, it is employed in research settings to study structure-activity relationships, aiding in the optimization of drug efficacy and safety profiles.