(1-Isocyanoethyl)benzene is primarily used as a versatile building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds and pharmaceuticals. Its isocyanide functional group makes it valuable in multicomponent reactions, such as the Ugi reaction, where it facilitates the creation of complex molecules with high efficiency. This chemical is also employed in the development of peptidomimetics, which are compounds that mimic peptides and are useful in drug discovery. Additionally, it finds application in material science for the synthesis of polymers and coatings with specialized properties. Its reactivity and ability to form diverse structures make it a key component in research and industrial chemistry.