“Large” and “small” are generally used to express variations or changes in size, dimensions, or mass. “High” and “low” are usually used to express levels or numerical values. “Large” and “small” are often mistakenly used where “high” and “low” would be better.
Examples:
BAD: A low amount of the brain’s capacity is needed for survival instincts.
GOOD: A small amount of the brain’s capacity is needed for survival instincts.
BAD: A high fluctuation in average migration of gazelles was detected between June 4 and 18.
GOOD: A large fluctuation in average migration of gazelles was detected between June 4 and 18.
Examples:
BAD: A low amount of the brain’s capacity is needed for survival instincts.
GOOD: A small amount of the brain’s capacity is needed for survival instincts.
BAD: A high fluctuation in average migration of gazelles was detected between June 4 and 18.
GOOD: A large fluctuation in average migration of gazelles was detected between June 4 and 18.