Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents. It serves as a key building block in the preparation of sulfa-based drugs due to its reactive sulfonyl chloride group, which readily forms sulfonamides when reacted with amines. Its chlorinated aromatic structure enhances electron-withdrawing properties, improving the stability and reactivity of the resulting compounds. Also employed in agrochemical synthesis for creating herbicides and fungicides, where the dichlorophenyl moiety contributes to bioactivity. Its selectivity in reactions makes it valuable in fine chemical manufacturing and medicinal chemistry research.