Dihydroxybenzoic acid is a compound commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry. It has multiple synonyms, including salicylic acid, benzoic acid, and 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid. It is also known as gentisic acid and is a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of the important natural product, salicylic acid. Dihydroxybenzoic acid is often used as a starting material for the synthesis of various organic compounds and is an important intermediate in the manufacturing of various drugs. The numerous synonyms available for this compound help ensure that professionals in the industry can communicate about this critical compound with ease.