Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of kinase inhibitors and other biologically active compounds. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for constructing complex heterocyclic systems. Commonly employed in cross-coupling reactions such as Suzuki or Buchwald-Hartwig aminations to introduce aryl or amino groups, enabling the creation of drug candidates with enhanced potency and selectivity. Also utilized in agrochemical research for designing novel pesticides and herbicides due to its electron-withdrawing nitrile and halogen substituents that influence bioavailability and binding affinity.