Used primarily in organic synthesis as a building block for more complex molecules. It serves as an intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs. Additionally, it is employed in the synthesis of agrochemicals, including herbicides and pesticides, due to its reactivity and ability to introduce phenylacetic acid derivatives into target compounds. In research, it is utilized to study reaction mechanisms and to develop new synthetic pathways for organic compounds. Its chloro and phenyl groups make it a versatile reagent in various chemical transformations.