Used primarily as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves in the preparation of more complex organic molecules due to its reactive carbonyl and chlorinated aromatic groups. Commonly employed in research settings for developing bioactive compounds, including potential antifungal and antibacterial agents. Also utilized in the manufacture of specialty chemicals where chlorinated acetophenone derivatives are required. Its reactivity makes it suitable for use in electrophilic substitution and nucleophilic addition reactions during multi-step syntheses.