If I'm out walking, and I see two kids on my path, I alter my path, stop to tie shoe, whatever -
I don't do it because I'm scared, I don't do it because I want to avoid them. I simply wish to put myself at the best possible strategic advantage IN CASE they deviate from their path and decide to threaten me. Just being out of the way 5 feet "tying my shoe" means 1) I'll KNOW they intend to hurt me, when they jump off the path at me, and 2) I'll have 5 feet of space to get my weapon ready, create space, use a loud voice to remind them that one of us ain't going home tonight, whatever.
Mostly, just keeping your eyes on them, jaw out, shoulders square, hand on hip if needed... well, most bad guys aren't 100% psycopaths. Most will decide at the last minute to abort a plan if they suddenly realize the dude they're about to attack is in a position to have a jump on them - tactically, and legally. I"m 5 foot 10, almost 200 pounds, bald and in that situation, already looking pissed off and like my dick is hard to fuck their bullet holes after I put them down. I think two dipshits on a "KO" mission will change their plan if all of the potential victims made it clear, this will get ugly and go long...