Ethyl 2-(4-Chlorophenyl)-2,2-difluoroacetate is primarily used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for the production of more complex chemical compounds. Its structure, featuring both chloro and difluoro groups, makes it valuable in the development of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that require specific halogenated motifs.

Additionally, it is employed in agrochemical research for creating novel pesticides or herbicides, where the difluoroacetate moiety can enhance biological activity or stability. The compound is also explored in material science for designing advanced polymers or coatings, leveraging its unique chemical properties to improve performance characteristics. Its versatility in various chemical reactions, such as esterification or nucleophilic substitution, makes it a useful building block in synthetic chemistry.