4-Fluorothiophenol is primarily used as a building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its unique structure, combining a thiol group with a fluorine atom, makes it a valuable intermediate for creating complex molecules. In medicinal chemistry, it is often employed to introduce fluorine into target compounds, enhancing their biological activity and metabolic stability. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the synthesis of sulfur-containing compounds, which are crucial in the development of new drugs and pesticides. Its applications also extend to materials science, where it is used in the preparation of specialty polymers and coatings.