Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anti-inflammatory and antitumor agents. Its sulfonyl chloride group readily reacts with amines and alcohols, making it valuable for constructing sulfonamide and sulfonate ester derivatives. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for modifying drug candidates to enhance metabolic stability and binding affinity. Also utilized in the preparation of functionalized polymers and liquid crystals due to its rigid aromatic structure and electron-withdrawing trifluoromethyl group.