As an expert in urban studies and demography, I have a deep understanding of the complexities involved in defining and measuring the size of a city by population. The term "city" can refer to different administrative and geographical entities, and the methods of counting populations can vary from country to country. However, when we talk about the world's largest city by population, we are often referring to the metropolitan area or urban agglomeration rather than the administrative city limits.

The world's largest city by population is a title that has been held by various metropolises throughout history, and it continues to change as populations shift and grow. As of my last update, the title is often attributed to Tokyo, Japan, which has a staggering population of over 13.5 million people within its metropolitan area. Tokyo's population density and the size of its urban area make it a leading contender for this title.

However, it's important to note that other cities are not far behind. For instance, Delhi, India, has been reported to have a population that rivals Tokyo's, and it's worth considering when discussing the largest cities by population. Additionally, Shanghai, China, is another city that is frequently mentioned in these discussions due to its massive population and rapid growth.

The data you've provided lists Guangzhou, China, with a population of 14,043,500, and Istanbul, Turkey, with a population of 14,025,000. While these are indeed large populations, the figures listed here seem to refer to the population within the city's proper limits rather than the broader metropolitan area. It's also worth noting that population figures are estimates and can vary based on the source and the criteria used for defining the city's boundaries.

When considering the largest city by population, it's crucial to consider the following factors:


1. Definition of City Limits: The administrative boundaries of a city can greatly affect population counts. Some cities have expansive boundaries that include suburban areas, while others are more limited to the central urban core.


2. Metropolitan Area: The population of a city's metropolitan area, which includes the city itself and surrounding communities, is often a more accurate reflection of its size and influence.


3. Population Growth: Cities in developing countries often experience rapid population growth, which can quickly change rankings.


4. Data Sources and Methods: The reliability of population figures depends on the accuracy and recency of census data and other demographic studies.


5. Urban Agglomeration: In some cases, contiguous urban areas that may be governed by different administrative entities are considered together when measuring population size.

In conclusion, while Tokyo is currently recognized as the world's largest city by population, it's essential to approach this topic with an understanding of the various factors that can influence these rankings. The data provided is a snapshot, and the dynamic nature of urban growth means that this status can change over time.

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Largest citiesCityNationPopulationCity properGuangzhouChina14,043,500IstanbulTurkey14,025,000TokyoJapan13,513,734107 more rowsread more >>