3-Bromo-2-fluorophenylacetonitrile is primarily used in organic synthesis as a versatile intermediate. It is commonly employed in the development of pharmaceuticals, where it serves as a building block for the synthesis of complex molecules. The compound's bromo and fluoro substituents make it particularly useful in cross-coupling reactions, such as Suzuki or Buchwald-Hartwig reactions, which are essential for creating biologically active compounds. Additionally, it finds application in agrochemical research for the design and production of novel pesticides or herbicides. Its nitrile group also allows for further functionalization, enabling the creation of diverse chemical structures for various industrial and research purposes.