A broad variety of 2-substituted 4-(trifluoromethyl)phenols can be prepared in a large scale by o-lithiation and reaction with electrophiles in good to excellent yields. The key for the selectivity is the superior ortho-directing effect of the THP-protected hydroxy group (OTHP) as compared to the CF3-group.
arylations - electrophilic aromatic substitutions - lithiation - protecting groups - 4-(trifluoromethyl)phenol