Crystal violet is widely used in microbiology as a staining agent in the Gram staining procedure, which helps differentiate bacterial species into Gram-positive and Gram-negative categories. It binds to the peptidoglycan layer in bacterial cell walls, aiding in their identification under a microscope.

In histology, it serves as a dye to stain tissues and cells, enhancing the visibility of specific structures during microscopic examination. It is particularly useful in highlighting nuclei and other cellular components.

The dye is also employed in the textile industry for coloring fabrics, providing a deep purple hue. Additionally, it finds application in the manufacture of inks and pens due to its vibrant color.

In medical and veterinary practices, crystal violet is used as an antiseptic and antifungal agent to treat minor skin infections, wounds, and fungal conditions like athlete's foot.

Furthermore, it is utilized in research laboratories as a pH indicator, changing color in response to varying acidity or alkalinity levels in solutions. Its versatility makes it a valuable compound across multiple fields.