NEW MATERIAL:The compound of formula I (R1 is 1W10C alkyl; R2 is group of formula II, formula III, formula IV, etc.).

EXAMPLE: Trans-4-hexylcyclohexylmethyl-3-fluoro-4-cyanophenyl ether.

USE: A liquid crystal composition. It is a monotropic liquid crystal having positive dielectric anisotropy, and exhibiting a liquid crystal phase when cooled from isotropic liquid. It has broad liquid crystal temperature range, high clear point and excellent stability.

PREPARATION: The compound of formula I can be prepared by reacting the halide of formula R1-R2-CH2Y (Y is halogen such as Cl and Br) with the phenol derivative of formula V in a solvent such as ethyl alcohol, 2-methoxyethanol, etc. in the presence of an alkali such as NaOH, at a temperature between the room temperature and the refluxing point of the reaction mixture.