Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of fluorinated drug candidates where the trifluoromethyl group enhances metabolic stability and bioavailability. Its aldehyde functionality allows for versatile chemical transformations, such as condensation reactions to form imines or heterocycles, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry and agrochemical research. Commonly employed in the preparation of kinase inhibitors and other biologically active molecules targeting central nervous system disorders and inflammatory diseases.