Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors and other bioactive molecules. Its fluorinated aromatic structure enhances metabolic stability and binding affinity in drug candidates. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for optimizing lead compounds due to the electron-withdrawing properties of trifluoromethyl groups, which improve pharmacokinetic profiles. Also utilized in the preparation of chiral ligands and catalysts for asymmetric synthesis.