The definition of all these have varied in different times. However, generally accepted definitions and differences among them are as follows:
1. A State: A State can be described as a community governed by a set of rules, laws and a political structure. E.g. The State of California
2. A City-State: A City State is different from a State in that it's territorial limits are bound by just one city and surrounding suburbs. These are usually defined as very small but have existed throughout history.
Modern examples include Singapore, while historical examples include Rome.
3.A Nation-State: This is a state which is governed by a single political structure and is made up of a single nation of people. Cultural identity plays a huge part in the development and legitimacy of such a state e.g. France for the French/Franks or Bangladesh for Bengali people.
4. A Multi-nation State: Examples could be Pakistan or India. States with political infrastructures which rule over various nations e.g. Punjabis, Kashmiris etc
5. A Mutli-ethnic state: Unlike Multi-national states, multi-ethnic states, do not have a history of self-determination e.g. Brazil, Argentina etc.
