Is it
set ip address 1, 10.1.9.4Or
ipaddress[1] := 10.1.9.4?
This distinction should be captured in a grammar, not embedded deep within parsing code.
Advantages
Multiple alternative interfaces to the same subsystem become possible. Easier to integrate into other systems.
Things to consider
Limitations in the internal representation of parsed expressions or in the parser's capabilities may show in the syntax exposed to the end user.