3-Methyl-2-nitro-benzonitrile is primarily used as an intermediate in the synthesis of various organic compounds. It plays a significant role in the production of agrochemicals, particularly in the development of herbicides and pesticides. The compound's nitro and cyano functional groups make it a valuable building block for creating complex molecules with specific biological activities. Additionally, it is utilized in the pharmaceutical industry for the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other fine chemicals. Its reactivity and structural properties also make it suitable for research and development in organic chemistry, particularly in the study of nitration and cyanation reactions.