Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, particularly in the production of herbicides and fungicides. It serves as a building block in organic synthesis due to the reactivity of the carboxylic acid group and the steric influence of the methyl substituents. Also employed in the development of specialty polymers and photoresists, where its aromatic structure contributes to thermal stability and rigidity. Additionally, it finds use in the preparation of esters and amides for fragrance and flavor applications.