Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other central nervous system agents. Its structure allows for functionalization that enhances binding affinity to neurotransmitter receptors. It is also employed in the preparation of bioactive molecules for research in neuropharmacology. Due to the presence of electron-withdrawing nitro and fluoro groups, it serves as a versatile building block in cross-coupling reactions and nucleophilic aromatic substitution processes in medicinal chemistry.