Why would they be speaking about a complete stranger? And if they were why would the words of complete strangers matter one fig to me? Unless there was suspicious behavior involved.
Does that happen a lot to you?
I dunno! Maybe because... reasons!
(Seriously: It is possible that they would be speaking about a complete stranger. Me thinks you don't want to understand / are playing "dumb.")
And if they were why would the words of complete strangers matter one fig to me?
They might be complete strangers with whom you are being forced to interact (e.g., service personnel, waitstaff, baggage handlers, airport security - or maybe just sit right next to in a crowded subway) - Is it really so inconceivable to you that there might be good cause to be irritated / offended / worried if strange people in your vicinity are mumbling excitedly in a foreign language and eying you angrily?
Unless there was suspicious behavior involved.
Unfortunately, one doesn't necessarily recognize that something nefarious is going on until it's too late.
Does that happen a lot to you?
Everyday! I live in Germany, and about 30% of the other passengers in my morning commuter bus - here deep in the province / boondocks - are usually chattering away in a variety of non-European languages.
Finally: Maybe you're a big, strapping youth who can take care of him- or herself in a pinch - but a lot of older people (esp. ladies) have good right to worry.
- And no, I'm talking about a mother cooing to her child / an old geezer in a wheelchair whispering to his nurse, etc.
Regards,