(S)-2-Bromobutanoic acid is primarily used in organic synthesis as a chiral building block for the preparation of more complex molecules. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that require specific stereochemistry for their biological activity. Additionally, it is employed in the development of agrochemicals, where its chiral nature contributes to the effectiveness of pesticides or herbicides. The compound is also utilized in research laboratories for studying stereoselective reactions and asymmetric synthesis, aiding in the development of new catalytic methods. Its bromine atom makes it a useful precursor for further functionalization through substitution or coupling reactions.