What Is the World's Second-Largest City? Defining the Metric

The answer depends entirely on how "city" is defined:

• City Proper (Administrative Limits): Delhi, India (~33M) often cited 2nd after Chongqing/Shanghai (China definitions vary wildly).
• Urban Area (Continuous Built-Up): Jakarta, Indonesia (~35M) or Delhi (~32M) typically rank 2nd after Tokyo (~37-40M).
• Metropolitan Area (Economic/Commuter Region): Delhi NCR (~33M) or Jakarta Jabodetabek (~35M) usually 2nd after Greater Tokyo (~37-40M).

Most common answer in general knowledge contexts: Delhi (by urban area/metro population, 2nd to Tokyo).

Clarification needed: "City" is ambiguous. Specify city proper, urban agglomeration, or metro area for precision.