Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It plays a key role in the preparation of certain antihistamines and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) due to its ability to introduce specific halogenated aromatic ketone structures. The compound's reactivity makes it valuable in organic transformations, particularly in carbon-carbon bond formation and halogen-directed metalation reactions. It is also employed in the development of specialty chemicals, including dyes and functional materials, where precise molecular architecture is required. Due to its lachrymatory properties, it has been studied in the context of riot control agents, though such use is limited and highly regulated.