To obtain the subject new compound capable of expressing a liquid crystal property by itself or capable of being added to other liquid crystal substances.

A thiocyanobenzene derivative of formula I (R is a 1-9C alkoxy; X is a halogen, methyl), e.g. 3-fluoro-4-thiocyanophenyl 4-(4-pentyloxybenzoyloxy) benzoate. The compound of formula I is obtained by reacting a benzoic acid derivative of formula II with a p-thiocyanophenol derivative of formula III. Since the compound of formula I can constitute liquid crystal compositions having characteristic dielectric anisotropic properties and liquid crystal displays having characteristic driving properties, the compound is useful as a component for mixed liquid crystal materials.