Benzyl 2,2,2-trichloroacetimidate is a key reagent in organic synthesis for the selective protection of alcohols as benzyl ethers. It acts as an alkylating agent, activated under mild acidic conditions by Lewis acids such as BF₃·OEt₂ or TMSOTf, enabling efficient O-benzylation with high yields and minimal side reactions. This compound is particularly useful in carbohydrate chemistry, nucleoside synthesis, and the preparation of pharmaceutical intermediates, where precise control over protecting groups is crucial to maintain stereochemistry and functional group compatibility. The trichloroacetimidate moiety serves as an excellent leaving group, offering stability under basic conditions and versatility with various hydroxyl-containing substrates. It provides a superior alternative to classical benzylation methods like NaH/BnBr, avoiding strong bases and improving selectivity in complex molecular assemblies.