Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, especially in the pharmaceutical industry for constructing complex molecules. It serves as a building block in the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), including analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents. Its reactivity allows for the introduction of bromomethyl and aryl ketone functionalities, making it valuable in carbon-chain elongation and heterocycle formation. Also employed in the synthesis of agrochemicals and specialty chemicals where selective alkylation or acylation is required.