Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, particularly in the development of bioactive molecules with antifungal, anti-inflammatory, or herbicidal properties. Its α,β-unsaturated ester structure makes it suitable for Michael addition reactions and other conjugate additions in organic synthesis. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry for constructing trifluoromethyl-substituted aromatic compounds, which can enhance metabolic stability and lipophilicity in drug candidates. Also utilized in the preparation of liquid crystals and functional materials due to the electron-withdrawing nature of the trifluoromethyl group.