Body politic emphasizes the collective unity and organization of a nation, highlighting the interconnectedness of its citizens and institutions. It's a more figurative term that evokes the idea of a living organism with its own functions and purposes.
State is a more formal and legalistic term, referring to a political entity with defined territory, population, government, and sovereignty.
Here are some other terms that can be used to refer to a state, depending on the context:
* Nation (emphasizes shared culture and identity)
* Government (focuses on the ruling authority)
* Country (more general and colloquial)
* Sovereign entity (highlights its independence and self-governance)
* Political entity (emphasizes its political nature)
The most appropriate term will depend on the specific context and the nuances you want to convey.