Used in organic synthesis, particularly as a building block for more complex molecules. It is often employed in peptide chemistry, where it serves as a protecting group for amines during the synthesis process. The trifluoroacetyl group provides stability and can be easily removed under mild conditions, making it valuable in the development of pharmaceuticals and bioactive compounds. Additionally, it is utilized in the preparation of trifluoromethylated compounds, which are important in medicinal chemistry due to their enhanced metabolic stability and bioavailability.