(S)-Ethyl 2-((tert-Butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)propanoate is primarily used in organic synthesis as a key intermediate for the preparation of more complex molecules. It is particularly valuable in the synthesis of chiral compounds due to its stereochemical properties. The tert-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) group serves as a protecting group for hydroxyl functionalities, allowing selective reactions to occur at other sites of the molecule without interference. This compound is often employed in the pharmaceutical industry for the development of enantiomerically pure drugs, where the precise control of stereochemistry is crucial. Additionally, it is utilized in the synthesis of natural products and fine chemicals, where its protective group strategy enhances yield and efficiency in multi-step reactions.