Pyrasulfotole is primarily used as a selective herbicide in agricultural settings, especially in the control of broadleaf weeds and some grass weeds in crops such as corn, soybeans, and cereals. It functions by inhibiting the enzyme 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD), which is essential for plant pigment synthesis. This inhibition leads to the loss of chlorophyll and carotenoids, causing plant tissues to bleach and ultimately resulting in weed death.

It is often applied pre-emergence or early post-emergence for effective weed management. Due to its soil mobility and residual activity, pyrasulfotole provides extended control of susceptible weeds, improving crop yield and reducing competition for nutrients and water. It is commonly formulated in combination with other herbicides or safeners to broaden the weed control spectrum and enhance crop selectivity. Its use supports conservation tillage and no-till farming systems by enabling effective chemical weed control without mechanical intervention.