Final answer:
A state is a legal entity with governance over a territory, while a nation is a cultural group with shared heritage; a nation-state combines these concepts.
Step-by-step explanation:
A state differs from a nation in that a state is a legal entity. A state is an institutional and political structure with the power to make, interpret, and enforce laws over a particular territory. In contrast, a nation is more of a cultural and social notion, usually comprised of a group of people with a common heritage, language, religion, or political ambition. While states often come with a defined territory, governance, and sovereignty, nations may not have distinct geographic boundaries and can span across multiple states. A nation-state is a merged concept where the government of the state aligns closely with the cultural and ethnic identity of the nation, striving to protect and promote a common heritage and values. Examples of nation-states include countries like Japan or France, where the state apparatus is closely integrated with a dominant national group.