Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other bioactive molecules. Its chiral center makes it valuable in asymmetric synthesis, where stereochemistry plays a critical role in drug efficacy. Commonly employed in the development of fluorinated analogs of existing therapeutics to enhance metabolic stability and bioavailability. Also utilized in the preparation of liquid crystals and functional materials due to the influence of the fluorophenyl group on electronic properties.